Today I'm listening to Chromatones, a five piece rock band based in
Southampton who formed at the start of 2009. Their debut EP 'New
Worst Nightmare' is a great example of modern music. The vocals of
leading man Mark Hanson are enticing and fresh, his voice is crisp,
clear and sweet. Their first track 'Down' has an interesting
introduction, I'm really liking the subtle drums and how it builds
its way up and up. Especially as they continue as the vocals enter,
creating quite an exciting atmosphere. However, as it expands it
seems as though the vocals are little too quiet, and it feels as
though they are slightly drowned out at times. The moment the bass
has a slight intervention really works, before the drums return
followed by some finger-burning guitar and eventually vocals as it
nears the end.
The second track 'New Worst Nightmare' has some exceptional vocals,
the pitch reminding me of Muse frontman Matt Bellamy; Man, these
guys can compete. The drums take a bit more of a backseat in this
track, working in harmony with the guitars and vocals throughout.
These guys are definitely impressive. About three and a half minutes
through (aren't I precise!) the vocals reach a different level,
going higher than I thought would be possible for a male lead.
'Snap' has a rather quick intro compared to their first track, the
music cuts back at the right times and they all work together
brilliantly. These guys have definitely got something going, they
know what works, they know how to play and they definitely know how
to write. I think it would be quite interesting to see their energy
on stage, and the vocals would definitely be impressive and hard to
beat. As it reaches an end, their fourth track 'Scribbles on the
wall' reaches my ears. The vocals soft and smooth, yet strong and
clear. The guitar is subtle and innocent, and it feels quite calm
and melodic. As they all piece themselves together they create a
down to earth and yet dramatic piece.
Their closing track 'Fall Tactics' I read wrong to begin with,
reading 'Fail', aha. Its pace is relatively quick, and whilst it
feels familiar to their other tracks it is also different in its own
right. The vocals could benefit from a tiny bit more focus, upping
the volume ever so slightly to take even more control. Yet it flows
smoothly like a chocolate river, and has charisma and skill.
I'd like to hear a really mellow acoustic track from these guys, as
I feel they could make any track their own and experiment with a few
different styles. They definitely have potential, and I for one will
be looking out for these guys at a venue near me.
