Starbenders

Starbenders bring their glam-leaning rock to Think Tank Newcastle on 7 June 2026. Fronted by singer-guitarist Kimi Shelter, with bassist Aaron Lecesne, guitarist Kriss Tokaji and drummer Qi Wei, the Atlanta quartet croises 70s flair, hard rock drive and power-pop hooks. Sharp riffs, direct melodies and a sense of punch define their shows.

Formed in 2013, Starbenders have lined up a dense run of singles and EPs alongside the albums Love Potions (2020) and Take Back the Night (2023) on Sumerian Records. On stage, Shelter’s grain and presence lead the charge; Lecesne anchors with elastic bass lines; Tokaji’s fretwork is agile and precise; Qi Wei keeps the groove tight. The band has toured with Alice In Chains and Palaye Royale, shaping a set that moves from tougher cuts to hook-heavy choruses. In Newcastle upon Tyne, they roll out a show that revisits their catalog while opening the door to new tracks currently in the pipeline.