The latest installment of the Chicago Record Report shines a spotlight on some of the freshest local music that has captivated the ears of Reader staff this month. The unique soundscapes, stories, and emotions found in these new releases showcase the diverse talent within the Chicago music scene.
Highlighting the alt-rock duo Friend of a Friend, their new album, Desire!, was recorded in a seemingly haunted Victorian mansion in rural Illinois. The eerie atmosphere played a significant role in shaping the music, evident in tracks like “Gloria,” which features heartbeat synth rhythms and haunting vocals. Meanwhile, “FTV” blends ghostly atmospheres with a sense of urgency, capturing the uncanny vibes that influenced the duo’s work.
Dreamer Isioma, a Nigerian-American songwriter, presents a vibrant pop sound in their newest release, StarX Lover, which is a culmination of five years of conceptualization. The album intertwines a variety of influences, integrating soulful R&B, hip-hop, indie rock, industrial grunge, and futuristic electronic pop. One standout track, “Born 2 Live,” highlights a defiant spirit and has emerged as one of the most compelling bangers coming out of Chicago this spring.
Meanwhile, the storied UK-born punk band Mekons releases their latest album, Horror, which provides a poignant commentary on the current political climate while looking back at the legacy of British imperialism. With a mix of post-punk, alt-rock, and synth pop, the album opens with the reggae-tinged sea shanty “The Western Design,” situating listeners in 1654 and confronting historical narratives. Other notable tracks include “Glasgow” and “War Economy,” further anchoring the band’s critique and insight.
In a departure from his band Arriver, guitarist and luthier Dan Sullivan has returned to his long-standing project Nad Navillus. On the new album Upper Constant, Sullivan leads a five-piece band through intricate and artful instrumental music. The album showcases elegant songs that blend tension and joy, creating an atmosphere of spontaneity and creativity, all meticulously arranged.
Stander’s new album, Collapsing, showcases a broader musical palette, diving into post-rock, psychedelia, prog, metal, and shoegaze. The track “Exhaustion” evolves from glacial post-rock into shoegaze before morphing into dark metallic chugging. The sprawling song “Defeat” features saxophonist Patrick Shiroishi and Big|Brave guitarist Mathieu Ball, capturing the feeling of a vintage thriller score through its dynamic instrumentation.
Third Coast Percussion, celebrating their 20th anniversary, presents Standard Stoppages, featuring world-premiere recordings of six compositions from various esteemed artists. This album highlights works by experimental footwork producer Jlin, Armenian pianist Tigran Hamasyan, tabla master Zakir Hussein, violinist Jessie Montgomery, and Zimbabwean mbira and marimba player Musekiwa Chingodza. Particularly moving is Chingodza’s buoyant performance on “Dzoka Kumba,” which blends heart-stirring melodies with danceable rhythms. Jlin’s contribution adapts elements from J.S. Bach, infusing a playful charm into her piece “Please Be Still.” The album, rich in detail, creates an immersive listening experience that captures the nuances of each instrument.
In addition to these highlighted releases, several other local works have emerged this April, contributing to the vibrant tapestry of Chicago’s music scene. Some notable mentions include Archer’s Sudden Dusk, Bellhead’s Threats, BlackWristBand’s My Escape, and many more that continue to reflect the ongoing creative vitality of the area.
As the spring unfolds, these local artists are pushing the boundaries of their genres, creating music that resonates deeply with their experiences and influences. The Chicago music landscape remains ever-changing and exciting, showcasing a range of voices and sounds that deserve recognition and celebration.
This month’s review serves as a testament to the innovative spirit of the Chicago music scene, inviting listeners to explore the diverse offerings from these talented musicians and reminding us all of the power of music in connecting communities and sharing stories.
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