AMG Review of Airline People

Ken Taylor
All Music Guide

Airline People, a five song EP from San Francisco's For Stars, is a brilliant collection of outtakes from the band's first two U.S. albums. For Stars match wits with Magnetic Fields and Red House Painters, as their gift for melodic songwriting and execution shines brightly. The simple production and distinct vocals present on Airline People make the record quite endearing, as they are complimented by gentle melodies and wistful guitar lines. Though it is apparent that the record was cheaply produced, it's obvious that a lot of attention was paid to both the writing and recording of the album. They spout forth witty lyrics while waxing philosophical on modern modes of transport -- hence the title of the record. For Stars are sincere songwriters with a knack for gorgeous arrangement and musical/lyrical interplay. Elements of Low come into the fray as the pace of the record is entirely reserved and patient. No one element overpowers another as all pieces are arranged in the gentlest of ways, even while telling rather sad tales. The glorious builds of songs such as "The Racecar Driving Scene" are reminiscent of Slowdive but aren't quite as spaced out. For Stars remain grounded in reality with a firm grasp of what makes a record elegant. A deeply textured and thoughtful recording.