Album Review: Chase Atlantic Sing to Life’s “Phases”

Life goes through Phases, which is also the title of Chase Atlantic’s new record. In Phases, the trio try to analyze how joy and sadness can wane over a spirit like a moon. Hence, the catchiness of this album is how they make moodiness felt like a shimmeringly, tragic 80’s style melody. 

There is an undeniable retro influence in songs such as, “I Never Existed,” “Even Though I’m Depressed,” and “Love Is (Not) Easy.” Yet, their titles allude to Chase Atlantic’s emotional goal: dancing, sad songs. Love sucks! Life isn’t fair! Sometimes, a bad day is inevitable! These are not only quotes but truths, and  Mitchel Cave’s voice emanates that. His voice is feels paced, as if he trying to contemplate every lyric for its weight. This is, particularly, hypnotizing when Cave sings to his longing like in “Too Late” and “Angels.” We all want better, but is it our situation or our disconnection to it that is blocking us. 

Chase Atlantic – LOVE IS (NOT) EASY (Official Music Video)

Depression, anxiety, boredom, and simple moodiness are as threaded into this record as synths and chords. Such sentiments weave intro arrangements to make you want to sway with either a lover or a wine-bottle (lol!). Still, it a perfect, even desirable dynamic because, in the club, depression can fuel feet as much as rhythm. Hence, from “Her” to “I Don’t Like Darkness,” Chase Atlantic feels more like sage than an actual music genre. That may seem random but this group, happily, goes beyond genre to have purpose. They want to create radio tracks that speak to the real hurt and hope living. Phases achieves that and comes out on June 28. Click Here For More Information. 

Chase Atlantic – LOVE IS (NOT) EASY (Official Music Video)