Change isn’t easy for anyone; it’s a risk. When something works, even if it doesn’t work perfectly, the simplest approach is to stay the course, to avoid rocking the boat. However, for an artist, change is often necessary, but—again—doing so can be a frightening prospect both for the artist and for their audience.
Marlon Rabenreither has fronted the group Gold Star for over a decade now. While his previous approach was somewhat more folk and acoustic guitar oriented, the pandemic nudged Marlon to try something new; distorted vocals, aggressive guitars, spacey synths, and propulsive drumming. Produced mostly on computers with his bandmates, Rabenreither created two EPs which are now available as a full-length album, Headlights USA, Parts 1 and 2.
As an artist, Rabenreither knows that in order to grow and create, one must evolve. We also discuss his creation of the album’s cover art, producing the album during the thick of the pandemic, the retro influences on his modern sound, and where his life’s headlights will lead him next.
Evan Toth is a songwriter, professional musician, educator, radio host, avid record collector, and hi-fi aficionado. Toth hosts and produces The Evan Toth Show and TVD Radar on WFDU, 89.1 FM. Follow him at the usual social media places and visit his website.
