ALBUM REVIEW: Chon – Chon

Given the state of contemporary math rock, and in particular that of an instrumental nature, it is ever more difficult to stand out from a crowd. CHON have overcome this speed bump courtesy of two striking albums, and having now earned their seat at the table alongside some of the most enigmatic names the scene has to offer, they are set to return with full length number three, a self-titled addition that will surely add spice to their discography. If previous records were their cocoon, here they have emerged matured and ever more beautiful, glowing with the fever of confidence and musical aptitude.

Captivating an audience without vocals is always a difficult ask. The way in which CHON employ hooks feels totally unique, and they ensure we are tuned in from the second that Ghost opens up the album. Ultra intricate and tightly knit, we hear CHON at their most calm and collective, blasting through notes at breakneck speed, which seem to tumble like glitter. It differs from their previous work, and in a way it is less flamboyant. As Cloudy continues to prove, they are capable of more than just eccentric cut-and-paste math rock, and actually the outcome is a swathe of nonchalant splendour.

The dreamscape pushes on with further idyllic tracks such as Gift and Visit, where the minimalism remains well executed. There is no real attempt to dictate any urgency, and nor should there be when the detail is so concise. Like watercolour artwork, a vague first impression becomes more profound the closer you listen, and the wealth of influence CHON include becomes more evident. Petal could be a jazz track, as cymbal work flickers lazily and drifts neatly behind guitar riffs and melody that never becomes boring. Tapping, quick fretwork and beautiful chords combine in a dizzying coalition, evoking happy thoughts and images of summer.

As we fly into Pitch Dark, slow beginnings prove a breeding ground for blasé noodling and time signatures that are constantly bent out of shape. Experimental, eloquent and frankly mindblowing, tracks like Rosewood and If leave the listener as perplexed as they are impressed. It all makes little sense, and that is part of the intrigue. The way in which CHON force us to mentally unravel tracks like Spike means that we become inadvertently submerged in the dense forest of sporadic notes.

By nature, math rock is never an easy listen, but it very easy for any meaning to be lost in chaos. CHON are clearly masters of their own craft, ensuring that every note carries purpose. The omission of vocals will of course always discourage a certain fan-base, but for those of us willing to think deeper and unlock the puzzle, tracks like Dead Ends and Thanks feel truly rewarding. Even at this late stage, we hear novelty at every twist. Metallic edge slides seamlessly beside soothing melody and acoustic guitar. This patchwork approach is sure to turn heads from a plethora of scenes, as they step ever further away from traditional musical guide rails.

CHON are a runaway train, and with the breeze in their hair this new album will gather interest at an equally exponential pace. They have added a fourth dimension to their sound, and the result is a breath of fresh air.

Rating: 8/10

Chon is set for release on June 7th via Sumerian Records. 

Like CHON on Facebook.