8/10
Following a tidal wave of critical claim, Northern Irish electro-punks Chalk are back with their latest EP ‘Conditions II’. Attacking your senses with a mere four tracks, the EP takes an ambient electronic base and builds a layer of noise and attitude on top, creating the algorithm for their fresh take on the genre which has seen them named the Best Live Act at the NI Music Prize 2023.
Focused on the subtleties, the tracks emphasise the emotive vocals throughout, taking the listener on a journey beyond the boundaries of genre. Bringing focus back to a guitar riff, final track ‘Bliss’ sees the EP resolve from its high octane beginnings with a euphoric spark.
Overall, ‘Conditions II’ sees the band experiment with their sound. With a much heavier emphasis on electronic elements, they remind us they’re much more than a standard ‘guitar band’ - pushing the boundaries, expectations and energy levels to the maximum. Chalk are finding their feet and finessing their style - and we can’t wait to hear what they do next.