The rock ballad has picked up a bad name over the years, mainly thanks to the damage done by an array of poodle-haired, spandex-wearing rockers back in the day. Well, thankfully, bands like GAZ are here to redress the balance, to remind us that this established form still has plenty of mileage left in it.
Yes, “More Than A Shooting Star” is a rock ballad, but one that comes from a more blues-infused, restrained roots-rock place rather than the histrionics and showboating that have been unfairly attached to the form. It runs on a more considered groove, soothing and seducing with understatement and sentiment rather than sonic sucker punches and cliche, and because of this, it has mass appeal.
Sweet strings and cascading piano runs form a backdrop, and slowly, the sonic weight is added through the rise of a Hammond organ and some scintillating guitar work. Slowly, we realize that what makes this song work so well is its ability to cross genres to gather the sonic resources it needs – soulful vibes, a country lilt, mature pop accessibility, and a gentle and understated dynamic holding everything together.
As the title suggests, the song’s message is a reminder to enjoy those unexpected and fleeting moments when love and happiness stand before you, even if you know that it isn’t meant to last. Don’t dwell on what might have been if circumstances were different; revel in the brief joy brought into your life, appreciate it, and move on as an emotionally richer and more fulfilled person because of it.
Yes, sir, the rock ballad is back on the menu.
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