Indie Music Album Reviews

chord - clinging to satellites

12/12/2013

Chord

Clinging To Satellites
self-released; 2013

3.8 out of 5

By Eva Cantillo

A new-age pop rock band out of the UK brings us a new EP titled Clinging to Satellites. The band Chord has a fresh electro-pop feel and gives us pleasant and soothing rock-based sounds to listen to. The style and sound of the band can be compared to classic pop rock bands from the 80’s like Depeche Mode and can even be compared to newer bands like Grizzly Bear and The Shins. Throughout the album the English accent gives it that tried and true vintage rock feel.

The first song carries the album title and gives us a glimpse into the meaning of the entire collection of songs. It starts off with a simple yet hypnotic electric piano that slowly builds into the song and then into the lyrics “I’d like to sit up on cloud nine,” which kicks off the song. The chorus of the track is anchored by “clinging to satellites” and emulates the metaphor of watching the world from high up above while being detached yet completely involved. The song has an ethereal effect and is quite dramatic.

The second song is called “Breaking Ice” and carries some really beautiful and metaphorical lyrics. It seems to be about the literal situation of breaking the ice in a new relationship. The lyrics “how many things can you tell from just one kiss, how many things can you love from a life-long trip,” beautifully accentuate the story line of the song. The next song “Show Me,” is a bit more upbeat and carries some kind of down-home twang or even an island appeal. It is definitely a dancing song. “Show me this place that is beyond belief… so heavenly that you can’t wait.” The repetition of the rhyming words creates an appealing lullaby effect. It is very catchy.

The band Chord has a very appealing sound that spans a variety of emotions. The vocals within the songs can mold to fit any form, and the quality of the sound lets each contributing instrument and effect of the song to shine through. There are many metaphors and beautiful poetic phrases laden within this EP, making more than just a collection of sounds. Clinging to Satellites is a great overall listen.