Revis emerges with "Stardust (All Around Us)," a single that artfully walks the tightrope line between the band's post-grunge beginnings and its new introspective, reflective energy. With Justin Holman singing, Robert Davis on guitar, and David Piribauer drumming, the band first made some ripples in the early 2000s with its Epic Records debut, Places for Breathing, and they now show their musical impact has not faded.
From the first chord, with "Stardust (All Around Us)," listeners are wrapped in familiar terrain as well as an expansive one. That is what inspired the song's overarching theme, the short life of the things of this world, and the search for some lasting answers. We aimed to use music and imagery to prompt the listener to question their priorities, purpose, and what to hold onto. Holman's untarnished, arresting voice, not unlike that of Jen Ledger Skillet, guides us with strong lyrics that challenge us to reach past the temporary things of this world in search of more. The song's lyrics evoke introspection, and Davis brings it to life with tight driving guitar work and Piribauer's propulsive drumming, creating a rhythm that is both grounding and uplifting.
Listeners of Caught in the Rain and Seven will hear shades of Revis' previous smashes in this track, but "Stardust (All Around Us)" is a mature, introspective anthem all its own. The band's familiar vivacity remains, but there's a new depth here that reflects how they've grown since landing at No. 1 on Billboard's Heatseekers chart in 2003.
Whether you're reacquainting yourself with Revis or hearing them for the first time, "Stardust (All Around Us)" is a helpful reminder of why this Southern Illinois trio wrote and continues to write post-grunge music tinged with more sentimentality and openness than your average three-minute chunk of emo. With this release, Revis shows that some stars do not dim, they burn brighter.