ALBUM REVIEW: Pink Felt Trip – The Chemistry Set

Psychedelic rock music has been a well-known genre since the late 1960s, but have you ever heard of neo-psychedelic rock? THE CHEMISTRY SET were formed in 1987 during the boom of said genre, which they helped to pioneer. Founded by David McLean and Paul Lake, the band took elements of rock and psychedelic rock, and are credited as helping create the genres of dream pop and shoegaze. Their new album, Pink Felt Trip, is their 61st release, and it arrives just as the band celebrate their 35th anniversary this year.

The title track, Pink Felt Trip, kicks off the nine song album. It’s a mid-tempo track, with the vocals well-matched to it, and while it may not be the most exciting song, the ending is unique, especially because it swerves off into a completely different song. It is a nice outro, and the production means that it does not sound out of left field.

The Witch is a moodier and darker song. It is more sombre in tone, and tells the story of a witch. There are added instruments, such as flutes. This song might not sound very exciting if you are after high-energy; however, the slight creepiness of the song makes it unique. Most bands would update their sound with the times, especially if they have been around as long as THE CHEMISTRY SET have, but these guys clearly know their audience, and the unique experience that is given during this song is impressive. The last quarter of the song descends into a flurry of vocals and screeching instruments.

This is instantly juxtaposed with the next song, entitled Lovely Cup Of Tea. It is a light-hearted, up-tempo song, with fantastic British humour and a punchline which argues that everything can be solved with a cup of tea. The up-beat tempo would not work right after such slow songs with any other band, but here it does; this proves that the production is fantastic, as the pacing of the album is not affected at all.

As you would expect from a band of their age, THE CHEMISTRY SET clearly know what they are doing with their sound. Firefly embraces the rock side of things, including an awe-inspiring guitar solo at the end. On the other hand, there are songs like Psychotronic Man which lean into the slower side of things. However, despite the change in song pacing, the album’s overall flow never falters. The production also makes the vocals and instruments blend well together, with neither overtaking one nor the other.

In conclusion, THE CHEMISTRY SET have knocked it out the park with this one. Pink Felt Trip is a fantastic album. No matter what side of music the band are exploring, the album’s production is what keeps it even. The exploration of different genres is key to what makes this album so unique. The band show that they are not afraid to explore outside of their genre, therefore widening their horizons. They know what their sound is; however, they have also moved on with the times to create something timeless.

Rating: 8/10

Pink Felt Trip is set for release on June 3rd via Fruits De Mer Records.

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