It only took one show for Stars Align to run head first into fate. The powerful pop/rock quintet took its anthemic, hook-driven sound to the stage at L.A.’s world-famous Troubadour and left their mark on an interesting mix of fans that night. On one side was Joe Don Rooney, guitarist for country/pop supergroup Rascal Flatts; on the other, rock music managers Dave Taylor, Tim Smith and John Daley (Chiodos, Atreyu, Norma Jean). Shortly after the performance, Stars Align signed a production deal with Joe Don and secured management with Dave, Tim and John.
Why did both of these seemingly disparate musical forces come together that night and leave with Stars Align on their rosters? The songs. It is Stars Align’s unapologetic delivery of melodic, arena-ready rock that unites music lovers from all across the spectrum. Anthems like “Don’t Bring Me Down” sound like instant classics and the infectious, sing-along “Wrong” is ripe and ready for the airwaves.
Singer/songwriter John Stephens has been writing songs since the age of six and has garnered backing and support from a wide array of industry legends. American Idol’s Randy Jackson, A&R guru John Kalodner, Linkin Park-producer Don Gilmore and more have all put their stamp of approval on John’s songs. With a sound that’s both fresh and familiar, Stars Align combines elements of Coldplay and The Cure; Jimmy Eat World and The Killers.
Joined by guitarists Henry Flury and Rob Hilburger, bassist Dan Camacho and drummer Sean McKinney, Stars Align embarked on a one-year creative collaboration with Joe Don Rooney during which time they wrote and recorded their debut. Recounts Joe Don, “I had a blast producing these guys and I know great things are on the horizon for Stars Align."
In June 2008, the band released the culmination of that work to an eager fan base. The six-song EP instantly received critical acclaim. "The impressive debut EP by Stars Align," said Playboy Deputy Editor Stephen Randall, "is a memorable mix of piano-driven pop rock with catchy choruses and enough energy to fill a stadium." Multinational music reviewers melodic.net wrote, "Stars Align...is modern rock heaven for all of us lovers of passionate melodies and great choruses."
