With a manifesto proclaiming "Taste = reserve = fear = stagnation = Boredom," London's whimsical collective They Came From the Stars I Saw Them mixes sweet British pop leanings with heroic doses of experimental rock. The group formed in 1999 and features a revolving cast of characters, including Alexi Star, Horton Jupiter, Naomi Star, Mars Reacher, Giles Star, Daniel Star, and Keith Star; at times their ranks number up to 20 people. As the band name suggests, They Came From the Stars I Saw Them's surreal, Canterbury prog-inspired sound was inspired by an alleged alien visitation, a theme set forth on their 2001 debut 10" for Lo Recordings, They Came From the Stars I Saw Them / Beer of the Gods. Appearances on compilations by Lo and Rocket Girl, as well as their Sunshine Coach EP, filled out the group's 2002. The following year, They Came From the Stars I Saw Them released their self-titled, full-length debut, and rounded out their 2003 with a new single, Authentautistic / I Am Not Afraid, and a series of Christmas dates in London and several German cities. ~ Heather Phares