For most bands, the idea of releasing an album is something that only ever remains a dream, and never becomes a reality.
That was certainly what Belfast based duo Chalk initially thought in their early days, when they were only making music for a hobby and never imagined releasing anything. A few years later, and they’ve opened up for Fontaines D.C in front of 40,000 people in their home city, and their debut album is around the corner. It’s been quite the journey.
So if you’re going to release one album, why not make it the only one you’ll ever release? That was the thought process for the duo, who wrote a manifesto before
While this was more of a mentality than an outright declaration, it still meant they left nothing on the cutting room floor.
Known for their blend of Dublin’s post-punk scene and Belfast’s dance and electronic scope, the pair have quickly established themselves as one of the most unique bands to come out of Ireland in years. Now with their debut album, ‘Crystalpunk’, the duo can truly solidify their position.
The record presents itself across ten tracks, and is rooted in the post-conflict society of their home city Belfast. Each song is brimming with edge and attitude, and the album flows seamlessly through a balanced sound of rock and electronic.
Opener ‘Tongue’ doesn’t ease you in when introducing you to the world of Crystalpunk, instead thrusting you into the noise. Its drums hammer into each ear, while vocalist Ross Cullen comes close to tearing his vocal chords on the microphone. If you were expecting something a bit more lowkey, you’re likely in the wrong place.
It’s a mystery as to why ‘Longer’ wasn’t chosen as a single. Perhaps the closest the duo have come to creating an out-and-out rock tune, it’s simplistic guitar riff sounds huge in the mix, and will be one to break the amps when played on stage.
Meanwhile, ‘One-Nine-Eight-Zero’ is another song that deserved the spotlight before album release. Ross’s autotune vocals blend perfectly with its accompanying instrumental – a 2010 pop sound refitted with a modern touch. ‘Skem’ is full-throttle and blaring, bordering on hardstyle. Some might find it overwhelming with its sheer noise, and for others it will be a reason to rave long into the night.
The 8 minute long ‘Béal Feirste’ is another standout – a track desperate for a brighter future in the pair’s homeland. There isn’t much room here for guitar riffs or rock-isms. It’s electronic dance music at its purest, sending a message while demanding you to be on your feet.
Creating a sound completely unique to your identity is an incredibly rare feat for a band to achieve by their first LP, but it’s something Chalk have done with ease. Their music is best imagined for a sweaty, small night club. The only problem with that is they’re destined for arenas.
If this truly will be the only Chalk album to ever be released, then it’s something the pair can hold their head up high too.
Words by Niall McGreevy
