The Elegant Chasers take their music to the next sonic level as they return with the latest single, Running Around The Song. The Walton-On-Thames solo artist otherwise known as Maz Loizou, is the mastermind behind the group and its concepts. To try and define the group would be a struggle. Loizou takes in a lot of influences to produce a genre-bending piece of music.
The overall sounds of Running Around The Sun delve into grunge, classic rock, experimental rock and prog rock. It presents the idea of what if Manic Street Preachers, Stone Temple Pilots and Deftones had a baby. That’s only a simple description of the explosive and unique sound The Elegant Chasers create.
This five-minute titan packs a real punch. From gritty and bassy guitars to pounding drums this is all within the first few seconds. On top of that, there are ringing guitar notes that delve into delightful effects. The vocals themselves feel gritty and stripped back, but mature simultaneously.
It feels as though there is a space effect on the voice to give each element involved an extra sonic boost. There are so many layers of audio going on here it’s hard to absorb it all in. It’s not a negative factor, it’s merely an intriguing piece of craftsmanship.
The chorus picks up on a classic early 00s hard-rock vibe where the vocals don’t transcend too far away from the verse. Harmonies are included in certain sections, but the vocal effects and chunky guitars continue the space rock theme.
The bridge builds up from the chorus where it feels like there is a consistent sound being raised up and down in the background. The lead guitars mix well with the vocals in the chorus for the introduction and then the deeper notes give the chorus its real character. Like throughout most of the track, the heavier notes build up intensity. Reflecting on the overall sound and theme of the track title, it gives a window into the pressures of space.
The two types of guitar styles almost feel like they combat each other but are equally matched. Think of a band like Porcupine Tree where experimental rock riffs guide each other. Transcending between verses and choruses feels seamless and when fully engaged in the track, you can feel the intention. The intention is the journey the track describes.
Running Around The Sun aims to push hard-rock boundaries. It plays with effects and benefits greatly from doing so. To say this heavily produced and varied mix of instrumentation is from one person is a striking skill. Loizou is really making something extraordinary and fun with their musical abilities.
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