Los Angeles-based Gold Star aka Marlon Rabenreither has shared a new single in the form of “Surrender,” a somber but uplifting anthem that blends together the singer/songwriter’s love of nostalgic Americana. The song is a first listen from Gold Star’s upcoming EP Headlights USA, a five-song collection that was created entirely during quarantine. A driving rock piece that rushes forward on the back of Rabenreither’s spirited cries and blitzing guitar-drum sprints, “Surrender” finds charm in its restlessness. Inspired by the seedy drama of Denis Johnson short stories and the introspective loneliness that one finds while traveling the distance and staying in motel rooms (“I spent 20 hours playing parlor games in Dallas,” c sings), “Surrender” is a powerful plea for help hidden behind dazzling and galvanizing riffs.
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The new single is also accompanied by a black and white video, directed by Cameron McCool, that sees Rabenreither on guitar shaking anxiously and howling deliriously as he sings the song’s words to “Surrender.” One minute he’s channeling Bowie, the next it’s a bit of Springsteen — but if there’s one thing that’s for sure it’s that Gold Star’s jittery passion is so potently released on both his songs and his live performances. Even rising indie-darling Phoebe Bridgers is a fan. Keep an eye out for the release of what is sure to be another expansive installment in Gold Star’s discography with Headlights USA which is out this fall!
Gold Star’s debut EP Headlights USA is out September 3. Visit his website, Twitter, and Instagram to stay updated on new releases and tour announcements.
Listen to Gold Star’s new single “Surrender” below!
