Music

Auto Chlor Releases “Kid Gloves and Crystal Math” Albums

If you had told me that the next time I’d hear an ABBA cover, it would be through the lens of a distorted, sound-rock, electro-dark ambient sound collective from Athens, Georgia, well, I probably would have believed you. Crazier things have happened, with one such example being that the cover was actually outstanding! Auto Chlor, a group I’m not too familiar with, has come back with not one but two full-length LPs. Kid Gloves and Crystal Math — it’s on the latter that you’ll hear the dissonant, moody take on Sweden’s sweethearts, and if you’re anything like me it’ll pique your interest enough to give the rest of the records a look!

Kid Gloves, the first of the duo, is a fantastic introduction to the Georgia-based art-rock group. According to the group’s ringleader, xx periscope, Kid Gloves is a portrait of xx periscope’s work life. They say similarly that Crystal Math is a portrait of xx periscope’s decaying home life, and the dynamic between the two records is noticeable. Kid Gloves features such enigmatic song titles as “yaw joggle,” “chivvy,” and “beefy truce,” and xx periscope has said they got the titles based on a random word generator — the songs would only then be written after the title was acquired.

BANDCAMP: https://autochlor.bandcamp.com/album/kid-gloves

This type of free-flowing artistic ingenuity is carried across the entire record, as compositions such as “downiest tine” feel like rediscovered old favorites, home movies projected up on the wall of the basement; there’s something so earnest about every track, and even the more abrasive and electronic-centric tracks work because they’re anchored in the same earnest nature. “melancholy trucking” is off-putting, especially following up “downiest tine,” but the duality is the album. There are glimpses of both sides of humanity to be had, and where you choose to focus is what makes your final decision. “boohoo acquiring” gives the record another go at some beautiful electronic strings, and the growth to the finale feels straight out of a science-fiction picture.

Crystal Math, tackling the subject of decaying home life, feels like a perfect encapsulation of the subject. Album opener “narcotic gawk” is a straightforward, simple orchestral piece playing over distorted vocals and a pulsing heartbeat. Its optimism is quickly removed by the cold, echoing void of the next track, “luxuriant coo.” This is a far colder entry, similarly experimenting with vocal sampling, as cold synths combat a pulsing echo — it sets the album up as a new thing away from Kid Gloves, and the following tracks, all ranging from one minute to two until the aforementioned “Fernando” cover work more as sound collages and brief interludes into an inner psyche than they do as typical songs. It’s an impressive collection of textures and sounds, with “help suggestion” even working as Auto Chlor’s stab at a typical indie rock track — there are still flourishes of distortion, but the song comes across as the most traditional on the album. Putting Kid Gloves and Crystal Math together, listeners will have an excellent double LP from Auto Chlor to wax poetic on. There’s plenty to love from both records, an ABBA cover included!

Artist Spotlight

Chandra delivers an anthemic dash of festive kindness in its recent single “Christmas Hugs”

The Bristol-based pop-rock quartet Chandra has unwrapped an early gift for music enthusiasts with their new single, “Christmas Hugs.” This upbeat festive bop delight is an auditory representation of a cozy fireside experience, encapsulating an intimate gathering that embodies a shimmering embrace. The track celebrates the joyous spirit of the holiday season with a hint of unapologetic nostalgia, featuring catchy melodic tunes that will resonate with listeners.

Frontman Chandra Nair leads the charge with his spirited vocals and jangly guitar riffs, while Chris Wong’s groovy basslines and Keith Jones’s upbeat drumming keep the song bouncing with holiday joy. Co-produced with their long-time collaborator Aaron Shawt, the track exudes a polished yet playfully energetic vibe, weaving together Chandra’s signature cheeky pop-rock style with a sprinkle of classic Christmas magic.

The brilliance of “Christmas Hugs” is particularly evident in its unabashed optimism. It’s a merry, melody-driven, lyrical anthem that doesn’t just sing about Christmas; it feels like Christmas. The composition radiates with festive cheer and an endearing sense of whimsy. Its infectious hooks and sing-along chorus effectively capture the essence of a holiday gathering, where warmth, laughter, and a little bit of mischief come together in perfect harmony.

Beyond the festive sound that sets this mesmerizing production apart, the song carries a heartfelt message. Beneath the layers of tinsel and festive flair, “Christmas Hugs” echoes the thematic hallmark of the band’s core ethos: celebrating kindness, inclusivity, and shared togetherness of humanity. It consistently reminds audiences that the true spirit of the holidays isn’t in the material gifts or glitter but in the human relationships that bring people closer.

Whether you adore the holiday season or find yourself counting down the days until it’s over, “Christmas Hugs” is the perfect song to lift your spirits. It can brighten even the gloomiest moods and make excellent background music while decking at home, sipping mulled wine, or craving a sonic pick-me-up, seasonal serotonin. It’s a feel-good vibe that wraps listeners in its joyful melodies, which don’t let go, just like the best festive hug for the soul.

For more information about Chandra, please visit [website].
CLICK HERE TO STREAM Chandra’s “Christmas Hugs“ on Spotify.
CONNECT WITH Chandra | Instagram | TikTok | Facebook |

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Artist Spotlight

“An Invite” by Carmen Braden stirs an ethereal sonic ode of memory woven in empowering choice

There’s a cinematic feel to “An Invite,” the second single from acclaimed Canadian singer-songwriter Carmen Braden’s new album, ‘A Hard Light,’ offers an enchanting amalgamation of sound and emotion. This stunning track encapsulates the feeling of looking back on a significant moment in life, eliciting a sentiment of nostalgia intertwined with the strength derived from choices that ultimately define our identities.

The song features a distinctive marimba melody, which Carmen created in collaboration with producer Mark Adam. This introductory sensibility set the stage for a narrative centered on a young woman grappling with essential decisions while being distant from home. The composition evocatively highlights the gravity of those moments and the empowerment they can facilitate, allowing listeners to revisit a personal memory in conjunction with Carmen’s experience.

Carmen’s vocal delivery is spooky yet beautiful, making it feel like she’s sharing a personal tale from the past. She works alongside Cas Palmer from Nova Scotia, creating a warm, friendly vibe that resembles an honest, heartfelt conversation, mirroring the intimate dialogue accompanying profound decision-making. The marimba’s consistent rhythmic beat underscores the cyclical essence of memory while integrating diverse musical styles, generating an enjoyable auditory experience that is both calming and energizing.

Each note reflects her experiences, celebrating vulnerability and courage in the face of life’s crossroads. This song invites listeners to reflect on the importance of our choices and the strength we possess, especially during uncertain times. “An Invite” showcases Carmen Braden’s exceptional talent by merging storytelling with an innovative soundscape. For anyone who has faced difficult decisions, this track is relatable, eye-opening, and profoundly impactful.

For more information about Carmen Braden, please visit [website].
CLICK HERE TO STREAM Carmen Braden’s “An Invite“ on Spotify.
CONNECT WITH Carmen Braden | Instagram | Facebook |