He is known for a powerful 60s era Eric Burdon (The Animals) influenced vocal style combined with a commanding stage presence. Velvet Starling's unique performance style has invited media and industry insider comparisons to Jack White and Ty Segal. Gisborne's early musical influences included British Invasion staples, such as The Beatles, The Who and the Rolling Stones.
Already making a name for himself at such a young age, Velvet Starlings has garnered attention from Los Angeles powerhouse KROQ as well as Sirius XM. His fusion of gritty garage blues coupled with Brit inspired rock has led to high profile festival bookings including SXSW/MEcon, Live At Heart Festival, Canadian Music Week Festival, Robby Krieger (The Doors), Van Morrison, Summerfest Milwaukee (Ozzie, Bon Iver, Vampire Weekend),Sierra Nevada Brewery Festivals, and now a full UK tour in June 2019.
Velvet Starlings’ long awaited self-titled EP on Sound x 3 Records / Rock N Rolla Records is set for release late 2018 which was a collaboration with producer songwriter Roger Gisborne (leader of 90s Brit Rock band “Plastiscene”), mastered by Brian Lucey (Arctic Monkeys, Beck, Black Keys). The seven track EP kicks off with leading single and video, “If Life Ain’t Getting You High”. The single features vintage guitar sounds, driving drums and hard hitting rock vocals. With introspective lyricism detailing living in the moment, "If Life Ain't Getting You High” is an anthem for the youth of today. The band wear their influences proudly on their sleeves with second single, “Borrowed Time”, a clear tribute to the sixties British Invasion era, which has been receiving considerable airplay & review. "Sold Down The River”, the latest single, showcases Dylan-esque lyrics, soulful Hammond B3 organ, gritty guitars and raw blues inspired vocals.