Star 99 - Bitch Unlimited (2023) Hi-Res

After a couple of higly promising EPs, Star 99 finally graduate to the full length format with an album called Bitch Unlimited. They pass the bar with ease. The alt pop/indie punk of the band from San Jose is full of life and kinship – fun fact: the four members of Star 99 lived together in their formative years. Among the lists of influences on the band’s sound is the “feeling of sitting in a dirty backyard with your homies on a beautiful day.”

Star 99 sound punchy yet twee on Bitch Unlimited. At no time does the music suggest that you might lose a life or two in the moshpit at their shows. Rather, you see yourself bounce, sweat and smile among strangers that will quickly become friends. Bitch Unlimited is a dynamic record. Spit Take for example starts out beautifully with guitar and vocals only, then the rest of the band crashes in and it becomes a cathartic song, almost uplifting if not for the lyrics that end on the devastating lines: “Did you settle // Bottom shelf// A discount price.” It’s just one example of how Bitch Unlimited can be appreciated on multiple levels, sweet and sour, quiet and loud. The change ups between singers adds to the fun, and when they join forces it’s complete synergy, like in the standouts Jackie and South Second.