Scarlet Speedster

Scarlet Speedster's self-titled six-song EP, recently released on local Popaholic Records, demonstrates the band's ability to stand out from the crowd. Younger fans will immediately associate Speedster's sound with the likes of Interpol and Snow Patrol, while older fans are more likely to recognize some of the band's influences like Depeche Mode, The Smiths and perhaps a hint of Roxy Music. The lead vocals, shared equally by all three members, lend that Morrissey/Robert Smith/Dave Gahan thing that ties the whole goth-rock sound together.

Most of the songs on the EP have dark undertones, they are all well-crafted, melodically pleasing pop songs. Computer-generated echoes and beats are the basis for Scarlet Speedster's signature sound, but they don't overwhelm you because live instrumentation balances it out.

There is real musicianship among the members of Scarlet Speedster, and solid songwriting. It is refreshing to find local musicians willing to break out of the mold and do music they love rather than what they think will please the masses. - Jackson Free Press

Scarlet Speedster: A must-see summer show

By Samantha Morgan

This night will host the Jackson, Mississippi band Scarlet Speedster, and it is certainly a must-see performance.

As far as their sound is concerned, they mix an 80s throwback sound with a modern temperament that would make any fan of The Cure cry out with joy.

And it truly is a unique sound – one that is amazingly polished and easy to enjoy no matter what taste your musical taste might be.


- Tiger Weekly - Baton Rouge, LA

"With a name like Scarlet Speedster, one might expect music in the vein of early '90s Brit-pop or grungy alterna-rock. Surprisingly, they pump out a unique blend of darkwave and gothic rock that harkens back to the early days of The Cult, The Cure and , yes even Depeche Mode and The Smiths. Created in the summer of 2004 by three close friends who were tired of the heavy-metal music of their previous bands, Scarlet Speedster set out to create music that had been lost in the local rock scene of late. Members include Dusty Goff (guitarist/electronic programming), Jeremiah Lipking (bassist), and Bobby Hansford (drummer/electronic percussion). Upon creating the band, the trio found the freedom necessary to fulfill their musical vision, which is a sound of lush melodies and driving rhythms reminiscent of the goth-rock scene of the early '80s. As mentioned before, their biggest influences are the superstars of the goth-era, e.g. The Cult and The Cure. One can even hear elements of The Prayer Chain, who were popular in the second gothic wave of the early and mid '90s. Make no mistake, these guys are constantly honing their sound and creating something that is rather unique to Jackson in the process. Scarlet Speedster have just released a self-titled EP, which is available at their live shows and through their web site; www.scarletspeedster.com. They are currently working on another EP, slated for completion by April. The guys will play shows in Baton Rouge and Fort Smith, AR over the next month, but their next local live performance is scheduled for March 24 at W.C. Dons".
Alex Slawson - Jackson Free Press