I am so psyched to see new material from Manchester stalwarts, The Chameleons, their first new material in over twenty years! Vocalist/bassist Mark Burgess has reunited with guitarist Reg Smithies in a quintet that also includes Stephen Rice (guitar), Danny Ashberry (keyboards), and Todd Demma (drums). The three songs on this EP are a precursor for a full length release entitled Arctic Moon that is due out later this year. The band is currently on a tour to support their 1986 Strange Times album. Catch them if you can!
The three songs here hold up well. The title song ‘Where Are You?’ has some powerful post-punk riffing, a strong melody, and heartfelt lyrics. It is a solid piece of work for a band that’s been out there for more than four decades, if not in the same incarnation. The new band smokes on this tune! I like the keyboard interlude a lot. ‘Endlessly Falling’ may remind you of their original work, and there is a reason.
Burgess states, “It is one of the first songs we ever wrote but never completed until now. I always liked it and wanted to record it for the first John Peel sessions, but it got vetoed and discarded.” Yes, indeed, it’s much like those early classics, and is a welcome addition to this EP. The final song ‘Forever’ is serene and rather contemplative in feel, a rather lovely end to this short EP. I like the stark arrangement, and Mark’s vocals sound as great as ever. It bodes well for their upcoming record. Highly recommended!
