What makes Black Star Dancing by Noel Gallagher's High Flying Birds notable?

Black Star Dancing peaked at number 10 on the UK Albums Chart, reflecting Gallagher's sustained popularity in the alternative rock scene. The EP also garnered positive reviews for its bold production choices and dance-oriented sound, illustrating Gallagher's versatility as an artist beyond his Britpop roots. Upon the release of Black Star Dancing, Noel Gallagher's High Flying Birds was transitioning further into a solo identity following their previous album, Who Built The Moon? (2017). This EP marked Gallagher's continued exploration of experimental sounds, showcasing his ability to evolve while retaining the essence of his songwriting prowess.

Who is Black Star Dancing for?

Black Star Dancing works well if you're into short energetic bursts, danceable rhythms throughout and vibrant party atmosphere.

How many songs are on Black Star Dancing?

Black Star Dancing has 5 tracks, running approximately 26 minutes.

Black Star Dancing

Noel Gallagher's High Flying Birds · 2019

26 min · 5 tracks · alternative rock

A vibrant blend of psychedelic grooves and alternative rock, infused with an infectious dance rhythm and Gallagher's signature lyrical wit.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Black Star Dancing — The title track combines shimmering synths with a compelling beat, establishing a fresh sonic direction that captures the EP's overall spirit.
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Rattling Rose — This track showcases Gallagher's knack for storytelling through vivid imagery and a catchy melody, highlighting his lyrical depth against an upbeat backdrop.
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Sail On — With its reflective lyrics and melodic progression, this song encapsulates the emotional undertones of the EP while maintaining an uplifting feel.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

48 /100

Foothills

Higher than 19% of albums we've rated

The EP showcases strong production and a blend of styles but lacks depth for lasting impact.

What we noticed

The first track features a steady dance beat layered with psychedelic guitar riffs, establishing an upbeat atmosphere.
The second track introduces a more melodic structure with prominent vocal harmonies and a slower tempo.
The EP includes two remixes of the title track, which extend its dance elements and alter the arrangement significantly.

Composition 25% of the score: 6/10
Craft 20% of the score: 7/10
Durability 25% of the score: 5/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 6/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 6/10

Influence 2/10

Little footprint beyond its audience. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

short energetic bursts
danceable rhythms throughout
vibrant party atmosphere
front-loaded excitement
engaging for active listening

Maybe skip if you

prefer lengthy introspective albums
seek slow, mellow vibes

Where this album fits

Career context: Upon the release of Black Star Dancing, Noel Gallagher's High Flying Birds was transitioning further into a solo identity following their previous album, Who Built The Moon? (2017). This EP marked Gallagher's continued exploration of experimental sounds, showcasing his ability to evolve while retaining the essence of his songwriting prowess.
Stylistic neighbors: Richard Ashcroft· The Verve· Coldplay