Stars and the Underground drift into the dark with new single ‘Echolocation’

There’s something delicious about a band that sounds like it was conjured during a thunderstorm — and that’s exactly the energy Auckland’s Stars and the Underground bring with their hypnotic new single, Echolocation. Featuring haunting guest vocals from Hannah Berry of Talmar, this one drifts like cathedral smoke and sways like twilight on the tide — and honestly, we can’t stop hitting replay.

Echolocation is the second single from the trio’s forthcoming album, ‘Guardians of the Night,’ following on from their 2025 breakout, Lonely Black Hearts. Blending post-punk, shoegaze, and dark synth wave into something genuinely cinematic, Stars and the Underground are proving that mood and atmosphere can hit just as hard as volume and aggression.

Listen & Watch

Stream “Echolocation”

“While we have faced various challenges, I believe this has ultimately contributed to a stronger final product. ‘Echolocation’ is a testament to this, as we initially introduced the concept in the limited release of the Evolution Circle EP. We chose to revisit the song, highlighting John McDermott’s exceptional drumming and production skills, along with Hannah’s enchanting contributions that elevate the track to new ethereal heights.” — John Mason

The Story Behind the Sound

Stars and the Underground was born from a chance meeting on a sweltering Auckland day between John Mason — formerly of 2000s goth rock outfit Winterland NZ — and John McDermott, ex-member of the legendary Headless Chickens. The pair’s chemistry was immediate, and when they crossed paths with Hannah Berry of dark electronic project Talmar, the spark for Echolocation was lit.

Echolocation is out now. Stream it, watch the video, and follow Stars and the Underground on socials for updates on ‘Guardians of the Night.’

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