Marc Hudson – Starbound Stories

Marc Hudson, vocalist for the mighty Dragonforce, takes a detour from his power metal roots with his debut solo album, “Starbound Stories.” Shedding the breakneck speeds and soaring falsettos of Dragonforce, Hudson embraces a more diverse and upbeat sound on this record. Let’s buckle up and embark on a journey through “Starbound Stories” track by track.

Track-by-Track Space Odyssey:

• Starbound Stories (Title Track): The album opens with a blast of energy. Upbeat guitars and catchy hooks set the tone for the record. Hudson’s vocals are powerful yet melodic, showcasing his range outside of Dragonforce. The lyrics hint at a spacefaring adventure, a theme that runs throughout the album.
• Astralive: This track injects a dose of triumph into the mix. Soaring guitar lines and a driving rhythm section create a sense of awe and wonder. The chorus is pure pop perfection, guaranteed to get stuck in your head.
• The Sky Is Calling: A power ballad emerges here. Hudson’s vocals take center stage, delivering a heartfelt performance. The piano and strings add a layer of emotional depth, but the track retains an optimistic feel.
• The Siren: This track throws a curveball. J-pop influences shine through with a bouncy rhythm and playful synth lines. The result is surprisingly catchy, showcasing Hudson’s willingness to experiment.
• Call of the Martyrs: A return to a more guitar-driven sound. This track features soaring guitar solos and a powerful vocal performance. While not as fast-paced as Dragonforce, the song still packs a punch.
• Starlight Brigade: Another upbeat track with a strong emphasis on melody. The sing-along chorus and driving rhythm section make this a surefire live favorite.
• Stars (feat. Mia Asano): A beautiful ballad featuring violinist Mia Asano. Hudson’s vocals are tender and heartfelt, while Asano’s violin adds a touch of elegance. This track is a welcome change of pace and showcases Hudson’s ability to deliver a powerful emotional performance.
• One More Sight of the Sun With You (Japanese Version): The album closes with a surprising twist. Hudson sings this heartfelt ballad entirely in Japanese, demonstrating his vocal prowess and global reach. The song is a touching love letter to the sun, a fitting end to this interstellar adventure.

Verdict: 4 out of 5

“Starbound Stories” is a delightful surprise. Marc Hudson steps outside his comfort zone and delivers a fun, upbeat, and surprisingly diverse album. The record is full of catchy hooks, soaring vocals, and energetic instrumentation. While fans of Dragonforce might miss the breakneck speeds and operatic vocals, “Starbound Stories” offers a refreshing change of pace that is sure to win over new fans.

A minor point to consider: The album’s overall lightheartedness might not appeal to listeners who prefer heavier music.

However, “Starbound Stories” is a joyride through a world of spacefaring adventures, catchy melodies, and positive vibes. It’s a perfect soundtrack for a summer road trip or a pick-me-up on a gloomy day. This debut solo effort from Marc Hudson is a blast, and it leaves us eager to hear what interstellar adventures await on future albums.