Stratosphere by San Jose, USA’s Duster was first released 25 years ago. In 1998, with Y2K on the horizon, the band introduced this dreamy indie rock debut to the world. Numero Group are now planning a re-release, set to land in September, just in time for the album’s anniversary.
By Graeme Smith
Just as Duster were hitting their stride, they went on an eighteen year hiatus. It took Chicago-based Numero Group to revive their records, and we’re grateful to them for it. Stratosphere shows how slow core should be done, and it was clear that Duster were setting off on their own direction when they took their first steps with their debut.
The album opens with Moon Age. It’s a slow-burning cosmic intro that leads seamlessly into Heading For The Door, a jangly, looping number with world-weary vocals. As it progresses, it slows to a laidback, glacial pace. Gold Dust is vibrant yet meditative instrumental. Topical Solution is a trance-inducing number with a simple, subtle message: “rock out!”
Completing Side A is the urgent and raw Docking The Pod, the smouldering The Landing, the pensive, fuzzy Constellations and the slow-building The Queen Of Hearts.
Side B opens with Two Way Radio, a twenty second interlude that’s rich with narrative. Inside Out follows at a comparative lick, blowing off the haze that had been created by the end of side A. Title track Stratosphere slows things down again, allowing you to get lost in it over nearly seven minutes. It’s a highlight.
Reed To Hillsborough is a slap round the chops of a track, opening vibrantly and hitting an indie rock groove. Shadows of Planes is a blissful and atmospheric vignette before Earth Moon Transit is an expansive crescendo, with the devastating The Twins/Romantica they provide the album’s emotional climax. Sideria then closes things with a brief, experimental coda.
Those of us who missed Duster the first time round are in for a treat with this album. Those who remember them well are going to enjoy this trip down memory lane. Perhaps most excitedly, the re-release will see Stratosphere sent into space, with its launch being captured in delicious 4K. I can’t wait to watch it.
You can pre-order the 25th Anniversary edition of Stratosphere here.
