The Black Swans violinist Noel Sayre died in a swimming accident in July of 2008, three months after his band had gathered in an Ohio garage to begin recording their new LP, Don’t Blame the Stars. The group set aside the unfinished Stars sessions in the wake of Sayre’s passing, putting together last year’s limited-edition Words Are Stupid before returning to the project. Which makes sense, as hearing Sayre’s mournful bow work while still grieving for the man himself might’ve been too much, too soon. Sayre’s rippling violin, echoing and amplifying frontman Jerry DeCicca’s pitch-black lyrics, was key to the sound of the Black Swans, and Don’t Blame the Stars proves a fine showcase for their late bandmate.