Solar Flares EP,
Chin MusicIt's actually quite embarrassing how long I've had this CD for review, but for whatever reason it either stayed in the queue or then ended up under a pile next to the CD player, where I would listen to it with the intention of reviewing it, only to be put off by other things. That's not a reflection on the merits of this band - after all, Chin Music (who incidentally feature ex-members of Nt Katies and Howards Alias) are actually quite good. Sounding fresher than a lot of the bands on the 'circuit' right now, and also miles away from the sounds that made their former bands 'famous', Chin Music play a brand of heart-on-sleeve rock music which references acts such as Biffy Clyro and Quicksand.
The five tracks on offer here are pretty damn good, although to be hyper-critical I feel they lack something to take them to the next level. The first track sounds great but maybe slightly outstays its welcome, drifting on over the four minute mark when a little less - mure punch and a snappier sound - would possibly sound better. Vocally Chin Music are distinct, the guitars are loud and the drums, as you would expect, are carried out with panache. As a first five-track release this shows plenty of promise and given some hard work, Chin Music could certainly deliever a Shawn Michaels-esque knockout blow.
www.myspace.com/chinmusicrocks
Paul
