Lucy Fitzgerald 
STAHR’s single “Loving Friend” pulls you in with a warm desert-rock glow and a steady pulse that keeps the track moving with confidence. Their mix of dream-pop edges and gritty guitar work gives the song a striking presence, and Grace Harris and Samuel Shepherd guide it all with a natural chemistry that feels lived-in and honest. The groove hits right from the start, powered by fuzzed guitar lines and drums that keep things bold without overcomplicating the moment.
Samuel’s lead vocal conveys a clear sense of strength wrapped in vulnerability, creating a tone that pairs smoothly with the track’s reflective nature. When the chorus rises with thick synths and layered harmonies, it opens the song, underscoring its emotional weight. Everything sits exactly where it needs to, giving the song room to breathe while still keeping the energy tight.
“Loving Friend” dives into the ache of walking away from someone you care about while still wishing them the best. It captures that strange mix of regret and love that comes when paths no longer align. Even with its frustration, the track never loses its empathy. It acknowledges the pain in letting go, while still highlighting the strength that comes from choosing peace over resentment. The writing paints the picture of someone watching a friend spiral, hoping they find their way again, and stepping back with compassion rather than bitterness.
As a listener, I found myself attached to the chorus right away. It hits with a subtle punch that lingers, and I kept replaying it without even thinking about it. The song manages to feel tough and tender at the same time, and that balance makes it easy to connect with. With earlier releases already setting their direction, “Loving Friend” adds another solid layer to STAHR’s momentum. It’s confident, expressive, and built with a clarity that feels personal.
Before you go, make sure you follow STAHR and save “Loving Friend” to your playlist. They’re carving out a sound that blends heart, grit, and atmosphere in a way that feels genuine, and this track is a great reminder of why people should keep paying attention.
Listening to songs so you don’t have to! Just kidding :D, you totally should. Music blogger by day, nurse by night
