𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐟𝐥𝐲𝐞𝐫 𝟓𝟗: "𝐒𝐢𝐥𝐯𝐞𝐫"

 

Starflyer 59 (founded by Jason Martin, pioneer of shoegaze, in 1993) released their self-titled debut album, (commonly recognized as"Silver") in 1994 on Tooth & Nail Records. Through the years, silver became one of the most notable albums in the underground music scene, breaking down boundaries of both "Christian music" and 90's indie-rock.

"Silver" sets a raw, ambient, grungy-like tone with its opening song "Blue Collar Love," a solid reflective track. Notable tracks like "Hazel Would," "Monterey," and "Sled" carry a lusher euphoric atmosphere, with remaining tracks following suit of Jason's lyrical and instrumental pattern. Though most "dream-pop" or "space-rock" albums carry more uniformed chord progressions and shapes, Jason Martin interchanges that with some metal-esque powerchords within his layering. Yet simple, Jason's lyrical writing is honest and to the point, tackling faith and love. “Silver” brings a heavy and moody presence with some The Cure influences and inflections.

The album would later be reissued in 2005 as a remastered deluxe/extended version. This version would also include Starflyer 59's "She's the Queen" EP (issued in 1994). Another noticeable change would be the cover art. Pictured would be an all-white outline of a crown with surrounding "greenery." On the plaque below the crown would read the fan-given-name "Silver." Along with the redesign of the cover also came the redesign of the inner booklet. Once littered with quirky and ominous tidbits, they are now removed. 

For an album released 31 years ago, “Silver” remains one of the most well-known albums of the Christian underground scene, paving a wide path for other artists to follow suit. 

Original Track List:  

1. "Blue Collar Love"  

2. "Monterey"  

3. "Sled"  

4. "Hazel Would"  

5. "The Zenith"  

6. "2nd. Space Song"  

7. "Droned"  

8. "Happy Days Are Here Again"  

9. "She Only Knows"  

10. "The Dungeon"  

Expanded Track List:  

11. "She's the Queen"  

12. "She Was My Sweet Heart"  

13. "Blue Collar Love" (Joy Electric Dub Mix)  

14. "Monterey" (Lounge Version)  

15. "Canary Row"  

16. "Salinas"  

17. "The Drop"  

18. "Droned" (In Love Version)