The Chameleons “Arctic Moon”

    When people think of the 80's new wave and post-punk music scene, there are definitely certain bands that seem to get a majority of attention, which is unfortunate because there are a significant amount of underrated acts that deserve some much more credit. In the case of The Chameleons, they are an enigmatic gem in the world of music that may not get the some amount of recognition as their fellow post-punk/new wave contemporaries, however, their profound songwriter skills along with their captivating musicianship has established them as an everlasting presence amongst those who hold them in high regard. 

    The Chameleons return after not having put out a full-length album since their 2001 release, “Why Call It Anything,” with one extremely deeply inspiring new album titled, “Arctic Moon.” Even though this is only the band’s fifth full-length album to date, their first three albums released in the 80’s remain some of the most well recorded and timeless albums from that period with my favorite being, "Strange Times." It comes with no surprise that this band does not comprise their artist values, or drastically deviates from their musical ethos on, “Arctic Moon.” Once again, Vox’s lyrics are very powerful and his ability to write such vivid self-reflective songs strongly resonates with the fans. The band’s sound is extremely welcoming, while also creating a sense of caution as society drifts into a very entropic future. 

    The first song on the album, “Where Are You?,” is a brilliant opening track featuring a vibrant sounding opening riff to welcome the listener into this euphorically sonic wonderland. Also, I really enjoyed hearing the full chords used throughout the track which injects into the band’s sound a mighty burst of radiant energy. The second song on the album, “Lady Strange,” is a very calming and catchy tune with more warm sounding chord progressions to complement Vox’s comforting vocal delivery. Throughout the entire track I felt at peace as the song’s overall atmosphere is guided by a profound synergy. 

    One area of this album that I thought really stood out was the stellar production and orchestral arrangements. Pete Whitfield who is credited for the orchestral arrangements as well as performing on, “Feels Like the End of the World” and “David Bowie Takes My Hand,” provides an extra touch of brilliance two unbelievably moving tracks. “Feels Like the End of the World” begins as a very up beat sounding instrumental arrangement that eventually transitions into a more haunting direction towards the end of the song. Very similar to songs on the first three Chameleons albums, Reg Smithies dynamic style is able to pivot down a variety of musical path, thus offering listener’s a plethora of strikingly memorable and emotionally charged guitar parts. “Free Me,” and “Magnolia” are also two very creative pieces of music that once gain demonstrate the band’s tremendously tight songwriting skills. “Free Me,” has you hooked from the beginning of the track with its monumental acoustic chords which eventually grows into a phenomenal chorus section to lift you up. 

    The song thought that really steals the show and is probably the track that I would say represents this band’s undeniable prowess as songwriters is “David Bowie Takes My Hand.” Every single second of this song you are drawn into every sound and lyric, which is achieved by the exceptional production and inspiring instrumental arrangements. When you hear Vox sing the lyrics during the chorus section, one can vividly feel the raw emotional tone coming from his voice as you listen to each word over the epic instrumental arrangement. The final song on the album, “Saviors Are a Dangerous Thing,” was released as a single in May of this year, and really addresses a lot of what has been happening the world for years when pertaining to the idea of a leader coming and making grandiose promises. As I always say, never trust someone who comes up and says that they are here to help, especially if they drive a white van and are dressed up like a clown claiming to offer free candy. 

    Overall, The Chameleons “Arctic Moon” is an album that is desperately needing for 2025, but in the end can hopefully be a timeless inspiration for many years to come just like the band's other full-length albums. Compared to some old washed up mummified looking artists who write pretentious protest songs and sound like drunk constipated goats, The Chameleons genuine act that listeners can relate to with true appreciation and respect for their talents. I would highly recommend checking this album out, and if you have never heard of the Chameleons, then you shall hopefully become hooked after hearing this release which will then get you to listen to the band’s previous works. Even though the times right now feel chaotic and confusing, the music from The Chameleons can be a guiding light to lift one's self out of the murky suffocating darkness and into a state of much needed tranquility. 

Check out the music video for "Where Are You?" below via Metropolis Records: