Press & Playlists

Since the release of Start Forward’s early singles, the music has begun to resonate through independent press, editorial blogs, and curated playlists. Below is a verified selection of coverage and placements.

Praise for Breathing Under Water

“Breathing Under Water is an album that resists the urge to shout over the noise by instead speaking clearly about what it means to keep going when you’re not entirely sure how. And if that’s not punk in its own way, I don’t know what is.”
“With this ambitious debut under the Start Forward name, Joshua Sturtevant marks his return in spectacular fashion — and we can’t wait to see what his new project has in store next.”
“Fusing effervescent allure with powerful alt-rock passion, Breathing Under Water showcases both dreamy atmospheric intrigue and fervent, heart-on-sleeve intensity... a thoroughly fantastic debut album from Start Forward.”
""[Breathing Under Water] uses the full expanse of the mix to build anticipation and atmosphere, then delivers with...cathartic bursts of distortion and harmony."

Press Coverage for Tightrope - the first single from Breathing Under Water


Featured Quotes

“Some songs don't just play through your speakers – they walk beside you. Tightrope is one of those rare tracks.”
— Finneas Enright, No Transmission
“Immerses the listener directly within its emotional landscape.”
— Dan Hanker, Honk.

Playlist Highlights

For recent releases, videos, and upcoming news, return to the home page or visit the EPK.