In the vast and ever-evolving indie-rock soundscape, Bristol-based quartet Chasing Kites stands tall as a beacon of creative prowess.
Building on the success of their November release, the captivating single ‘Shiver’, these musical trailblazers have once again graced us with their latest sonic offering, ‘Two Towns’, which made its much-anticipated debut on May 26th, 2023.
Originally emerging in 2016 as the brainchild of vocalist extraordinaire Matt Donnelly, Chasing Kites gradually transformed into a full-fledged musical force by June of 2022. The stars aligned through a serendipitous combination of ‘Band Members Wanted’ advertisements and the enchantment of social media, leading the band to discover their perfect lineup. Their meteoric rise saw them being crowned BBC Bristol’s ‘Big New Sound’ following the release of their previous single, the mesmerizing ‘Slide’, firmly cementing their status as ones to watch within the industry.
With a musical tapestry reminiscent of legendary acts like Catfish and the Bottlemen, The Verve, and The 1975, Chasing Kites effortlessly weave together a harmonious fusion of dynamic hooks, nostalgic 80s synth textures, and poignant storytelling, all encapsulated within the vivid narratives of Donnelly’s formative years.
‘Two Towns’, their latest masterpiece, was meticulously crafted under the watchful eye of renowned producer Sam Winfield, known for his work with Amber Run and Bring Me The Horizon, at the esteemed Studio 91. Through this melodic opus, Chasing Kites delves deep into the labyrinthine corridors of a fractured romance, dissecting the profound impact of geographical distance on a relationship and the haunting aftermath of an undesired breakup.
Unveiling the inspiration behind ‘Two Towns’, the enigmatic vocalist and lyrical genius, Matt Donnelly, delves into the thematic core, stating, “Two Towns dives into the frustration of having a relationship taken away from you through no fault of your own. It also explores the period of time immediately after the relationship’s breakdown, when you’re unable to keep your ex partner off your mind even when you’re sleeping.“
True to their distinctive style, Chasing Kites presents an enchanting composition that seamlessly blends heartfelt introspection with a melodic exuberance. The musical alchemy achieved within ‘Two Towns’ propels listeners on a sonic journey through the depths of emotional turmoil, accompanied by a cathartic catharsis that only their music can provide.
The synergy within Chasing Kites’ collective musicianship shines through brilliantly, as each instrument weaves its own sonic narrative, harmonizing perfectly with Donnelly’s evocative vocals. The palpable energy coursing through the veins of ‘Two Towns’ is a testament to the band’s unrivaled ability to capture the raw essence of human emotion and translate it into an auditory masterpiece.
As Chasing Kites continues to captivate audiences with their unparalleled artistry, their latest release, ‘Two Towns’, serves as a testament to their profound musical evolution. With an uncanny knack for delivering powerful melodies wrapped in introspective lyricism, this Bristol-based outfit is undoubtedly poised to soar to even greater heights, leaving an indelible mark on the indie-rock landscape.
So, let the heartfelt strains of ‘Two Towns’ wash over you, and allow yourself to be enraptured by the poetic charm and musical brilliance of this captivating quartet.