Review
Belly's debut album, "Star," is a fascinating little gem that landed in the early '90s music scene with a quiet yet substantial impact. It's like a treasure chest of dreamy alternative rock underscored by jangle-pop rhythms and a touch of something ethereal. Frontwoman Tanya Donelly, with her roots in Throwing Muses and the Breeders, really brings a distinct voice to the table. I love the way the tracks on "Star" weave together, creating this lingering, introspective mood that makes you want to dive into the lyrics as much as the melodies.
The highlight singles, "Feed the Tree" and "Gepetto," are just a taste of the album's deep dive into personal and poignant themes rolled up in some mesmerizing tunes. When I first listened to "Star," the blend of moody folk vibes with the band's sharper rock edges really caught my attention—it's like a soundtrack to a daydream with a plot twist. It's no surprise to me that it snagged a Grammy nomination for Best Alternative Album and that Belly was up for Best New Artist, because there's something undeniably captivating about this record. Even years later, it's got this timeless quality that makes you want to hit replay and sink back into the groove. - Ava