CHAFT - “High” and “Fever”
From Boston, Massachusetts, CHAFT returns with two new indie pop-rock belters: “High” and “Fever.” Both tracks are brimming with catchy melodies and inventive arrangements, so let’s get down to business and see what I think about them.
“High” embodies the spirit of the classic, indie pop-rock single and shares a similar vibe of the Super Furry Animals crossed with the pop sensibilities of Paul McCartney. Electric guitars tastefully dress the track, with the layers continuously shifting, helping to maintain engagement. These layers range from vintage-toned, jangly guitars that add a bright sense of energy through melodic arpeggios, to fuzzed-out noise that injects intensity and urgency. Additionally, the plush texture of acoustic guitar enriches the composition. The interplay between these layers is enjoyable, complementing not only each other, but also the other musical elements.
The drums propel the track forward in a straightforward, tight manner, playing a crucial role in solidifying the groove whilst the bass provides a warm pulse. But it is the vocal of CHAFT that is the star of this show– after the sweet guitars, that is… The vocal, again, has a slight hint of McCartney with its melodic phrasing, with the tone, clarity, and playfulness demonstrating a prolific dynamic range. Surrounded by harmonising vocals throughout, listeners are treated to another shifting auditory delight.
CHAFT’s second musical offering today is the lush track “Fever,” which I can only describe as a psychedelically-tinged record that navigates a musical path somewhere between the minimalism of The Black Keys and mid-1990s Paul Weller, when his bluesy hat was adorned. The bass line is the first element that grabs your attention with its funky, slick tones that groove with a beautiful sense of feeling. Propelling the track forward are the drums, which are simply a vibe in and of themselves, with rich rhythmic fills and syncopation that is simply to die for.
The guitar acts as a mood enhancer to this rhythmic core, injecting infectious bluesy licks that dance and weave grittily amidst the warbling, psychedelic tones that feel like they are melting across the composition. Just before we reach the halfway mark, the track takes a pleasing, brief shift in gear with the introduction of reflective synth tones, momentarily steering the track in the direction that feels as if Dave Sitek has been giving his 10 cents on the production.
Just as with “High,” CHAFT nails the vocals and provides us with ample amounts of backing vocals in which listeners can immerse themselves. With both songs, you get a strong sense that CHAFT is enjoying himself as he sings.
We are really loving the musical output of CHAFT and both tracks are worthy of a spot on your personal playlists. These two songs are taken from CHAFT’s debut album that is scheduled for release in early 2025.
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