Sometimes their songs evoke emotions that accompany a moody and melancholic strut in the rainy city streets, and others simply make you want to dance those feelings away- the ideal recipe for an artist. It’s evident that the world sees this, their evolution growing faster than is possible to realise, from that first release of the single ‘Them’ back in March of 2022. Since then, this powerhouse duo has made their name known to the whole of Belfast, then the remainder of Ireland, and now the UK and beyond.
Next week, their empire will only grow further as they embark on a supporting slot for Fontaines D.C. It’s not their first rodeo with them, but it’s just as impressive, and after the release of ‘Cyberpunk’, they are sure to have a weightier impact than before. This isn’t the only time they’ve been snatched up by the big leagues, performing alongside IDLES and Sprints in the past. Realistically, you’re bound to catch their name on the bill. Right now, however, they are teasing two brand new tracks, ‘Heaven’ and ‘Hell’. Take a look at the visualiser for the singles here. This seems to be a vague glimpse into what's to come; this sly way of promoting a new project suggests breaking their ’ rule ’, according to their interview with NME, where they spill that ‘Crystalpunk’ “Is the only Chalk album that will ever exist.” Possibly, this isn’t quite the truth; we hope so anyway.
‘Heaven’ featuring Phantogram and Cosign completely reignites a new era for Chalk; this is undeniably new, unmatched to what we have seen before. We’re used to a predominantly punk attitude, but this feels outwardly pop-inspired, and it works, of course. This is not to be confused with a pop song; there’s still a majorly electronic, punky element, just with a dash of optimism. In this track, there’s for certain a little bit of Crystal Castles in there, as well as an attitude only found in Kerrang-esque early 2000s love songs fuelled by angst; Sarah Barthel’s piercing vocals are an unlikely accompaniment in theory, but ideal in practice.
‘Hell’ is a sister song that takes you by complete surprise. To begin with, the whispery vocals layered with an enchanting electronic noise are simply pleasant to hear, a juxtaposition to the title of the track. And yet, it all makes sense when the beat drops and a new perspective is shed musically. This track is experimental, alien-like at points and all-around nonsensical, in an enjoyable way, of course.
It’s no secret that Chalk is already going further than the majority of successes only four years into it all. Who knows, maybe ‘Heaven’ and ‘Hell’ will earn a spot on the Fontaines’ supporting set list, and future headlining live shows. This is an act that if you’re not already enamored with their being, you will be soon enough.
Amy Porter
Image: Ada Senelli