In April 2001, Starsailor (formerly known as Waterface) released their second single, Good Souls, to widespread acclaim, cementing their place in the indie mainstream. Their name was inspired by Tim Buckley’s 1970 album Starsailor, and their debut album, Love Is Here, reflected the influence of Jeff Buckley’s iconic release, Grace.
Falsetto vocals, sweet harmonies, and jangly guitars were the hallmarks of Starsailor’s early success, with four hit singles and a No. 2 album in their first year. Fast-forward to 2017, and their sound holds up remarkably well in a music industry that’s undergone seismic shifts. Trends come and go, but James Walsh’s distinct, melodic voice remains timeless.
On a rainy Thursday evening, over 900 fans packed the O2 Academy in Liverpool. But this was no mere nostalgia trip. Tracks from their new album, All This Life, received just as much enthusiasm as their early hits. Opening with the lead single, Listen to Your Heart, the crowd immediately erupted—beer in one hand, fists punching the air with the other.
The energy only climbed with early favourites Alcoholic and Poor Misguided Fool from their debut album. Delivered at varied tempos, both tracks had the audience belting along like it was the final call at the pub.
A Seamless Blend of Old and New
Starsailor showcased eight songs from All This Life, proving the new material holds its own against their classic repertoire. Standouts included Best of Me and Take a Little Time, both of which resonated powerfully with the crowd.
James Walsh also paid tribute to Tom Petty with a heartfelt acoustic rendition of American Girl. As a delightful bonus, he teased a snippet of MGMT’s Kids during their 2009 hit Tell Me It’s Not Over.
Beyond the music, Walsh’s genuine enthusiasm and humility shone through. He took a moment to honour Liverpool, sharing a cheeky anecdote about the city being voted the UK’s second-best (after London, naturally).
A Night to Remember
The set concluded with fan favourites Silence Is Easy and Fall to the Floor. With a perfect blend of nostalgia and fresh energy, Starsailor delivered a show that reaffirmed their enduring appeal, proving they’re far from a relic of the early 2000s.
