General Information
Personnel:
Austen Starr – vocals
Joel Hoekstra – guitar
Chris Collier – bass and drums
Steve Ferlazzo – keyboards
Chloe Lowery – background vocals
Release Date: February 13, 2026
Label: Frontiers Music Srl
Setting the Scene
I Am The Enemy is the debut album from Austen Starr. The release introduces a contemporary rock sound that draws from classic hard rock influences and 90s nostalgia. It features collaboration with guitarist Joel Hoekstra, who performs all guitar parts on the recording. This album marks Starr’s first full-length entry into the rock genre.
First Impression
From the fast, heavy opening of “Remain Unseen”, it is clear the album completely bypasses new-wave electronic trends in favor of pure, guitar-driven rock. The momentum builds immediately, pulling you in with massive, catchy choruses that just feel incredibly good to listen to. By the time the 90s nostalgia and anthemic energy of the title track hit, the record establishes a deeply engaging grip that grabs your attention and refuses to let go.
Similar Sounds
If you’re into any of these artists, this album should be on your radar.
Visual Vibes
Track on Repeat
“I Am The Enemy” hits with a heavy dose of early 00s vibes, anchored by a killer opening riff, a great chorus, and captivating lyrics.
In-depth Notes
Musical Shape 🎸
The album strikes a perfect balance between heavy, fast-paced riffs and calmer, romantic rock moments that let the instruments breathe. Joel Hoekstra’s guitar work drives the record, delivering everything from massive solos on “I am the Enemy” to beautiful, clean playing on slower, softer tracks like “The Light”. It completely ditches new-wave electronic elements in favor of real, tangible instrumentation that keeps the energy authentic from front to back.
Vocal Performance 🎤
Austen Starr delivers a vocal performance that is instantly distinguishable. She shines on tracks like “Medusa”, where her precise intonation stands out just as much as her actual tone. Whether she is driving massive, catchy choruses or dialing it back for softer songs like “The Light”, her delivery remains consistently powerful and memorable.
Production Quality 🎧
While the album leans away from using atmospheric soundscapes between tracks, it still manages to stay completely engaging. It keeps the momentum going through smart track sequencing and a constant shift in speed and heaviness, ensuring the listening experience never gets monotonous. Backed by a solid mix, every single instrument comes through with perfect clarity.
Themes and Concepts 💭
I Am The Enemy dives into deeply personal territory, tackling inner turmoil, self-deprecation, and the painful reality of doomed relationships. Aside from addressing these concepts head-on with her lyrics, Starr also uses imagery from familiar myths and stories, delivering its heavy emotional themes with depth and focus.
Final Verdict
Mood Meter
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Intensity
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Melancholy
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Darkness
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Emotional
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Serenity
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Energy
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Romance
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Joyfulness
Perfect For…
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| Emotional turmoil | Driving | Working in flow |
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| Night walks |
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