We have been fans of Southeast Ohio's Laughing Chimes since we first heard their music. Their sunny jangle lifted our spirits and quickly earned a permanent spot on the WYMA office playlist. Naturally, we have been eagerly awaiting the new LP Whispers in the Speech Machine, which was released last Friday. Did we get another edition of sunny jangle? Well, no. Are we upset? Not at all. Artists grow and evolve and Whispers in the Speech Machine is the sort of evolution that should be celebrated.
Here the jangling core is supplemented with dancing synths, moody reverb and expanded arrangements. Paisley Underground meets southern gothic strum and thrum? Perhaps, but there is a lot going on in these songs and all of it is good. The effect is to pull in elements or alternative, new wave and college rock, as well as an intriguing neo-psychedelia. The vocals are distinctive, reflecting the regional accents, and effectively convey the darker themes of the music. Whispers in the Speech Machine is a remarkable album by this young band and, in our view, a clear cut above much of the indie pop material being released.
Laughing Chimes are Evan Seurkamp (guitar/vocals), Quinn Seurkamp (drums), Avery Bookman (bass), and Ella Franks (guitar/keys). The album is out now via Slumberland Records.
No comments:
Post a Comment