Shaven Primates, an innovative four-member band hailing from Oxford, UK, has established a distinctive niche in the realms of dark-wave, art-rock, and proto/post-punk since their inception in 2017. Their unwavering determination to expand the limits of their genre and create music that expresses pure human emotion has garnered them a loyal fanbase. Taking inspiration from the Velvet Underground, Kate Bush, Tool, and Pink Floyd, Shaven Primates’ music features an intriguing mix of rough basslines, soaring guitars, and energetic synths that transition smoothly between vintage and contemporary sounds. Their music stirs various emotions, such as fear, love, and anger, turning each track into a powerful, cathartic experience.
Their newest output, the EP “Chasing The Dragon”, launched on December 13th, 2024, highlights an audacious new phase in their artistic progression, emphasizing the theme of “desire” as opposed to the more reflective subjects of their earlier works, like ‘Birds Aren’t Real’ (that examined unconventional thought) and ‘Child of Dirt’ (that investigated childhood trauma and addiction). “Chasing The Dragon” isn’t merely a song compilation; it’s an auditory journey through pure, unrefined feelings and the tumultuous energy that yearning can spark.
“Chasing The Dragon” is a masterpiece of immersive sound environments and complex musicality. From the first song, the EP captures the audience. The unity of the album arises not only from its theme of longing but also from the smooth transitions between songs. Every song possesses its unique essence, but all collectively blend like segments of a broader story. The meticulous focus on musicality is apparent in the arrangements, which are both complex and broad. The changes in pace and mood always seem seamless, resulting in a listening experience that is both surprising and enjoyable.
Chasing The Dragon EP Track List:
Airwaves:
The first track, “Airwaves,” immediately establishes the mood for Shaven Primates’ “Chasing The Dragon” EP with its eerie introduction. A combination of ambient synthesizers and distant, reverberating guitar sounds forms an atmospheric soundscape that is at once reflective and wide-ranging. This atmospheric intro gradually pulls the listener in, creating a profound emotional context that intensifies as the rhythm section begins to play. The robust bassline provides stability to the song’s ethereal layers, while the precise, intentional drumming injects a sense of urgency, driving the track forward with a consistent, pulsating energy. This meticulous build-up of tension makes “Airwaves” a mesmerizing opening for the EP, skillfully balancing contemplation with vigor.
As the song progresses, it becomes apparent that “Airwaves” transcends mere auditory exploration; it is an emotional odyssey. The vocals are truly commanding, conveying an intense fierceness. This vocal intensity parallels the lyrical theme, which critiques society’s fixation on the concept of success and the lengths to which people go to achieve it. The lyrics address the fleeting essence of success, encouraging listeners to look past surface-level accomplishments and reconnect with their loved ones. There’s an unmistakable vitality in the vocal performance, bolstered by intricate harmonies and bold instrumentation, crafting a synergy that enhances the song’s essential message.
The assertive rhythm and dynamic vocal exchanges convey a mixture of rebellion and contemplation, urging listeners to consider the emptiness of societal expectations while celebrating the significance of human connections. “Airwaves” acts as a resolute anthem and a reminder to value compassion and generosity in a world that frequently prioritizes transient success over genuine relationships. The track makes a lasting impression, not only by establishing the mood for the entire EP but also by offering an immersive experience that resonates well beyond the music itself.
I’ll Quit Tomorrow:
“I’ll Quit Tomorrow,” the concluding track of “Chasing The Dragon,” opens with a stark, sorrowful guitar melody that instantly immerses the listener in a space of profound intimacy. This poignant introduction feels confessional, laying the foundation for an emotional exploration that captures the battle against addiction. The instrumentation gradually builds, featuring a driving bassline and somber percussion that inject a sense of urgency reflective of the constant push-and-pull of dependence. Pulsating synthesizers and tortured guitar tones add depth, crafting a soundscape that is both stifling and deeply absorbing. The dynamic contrasts between restrained, introspective verses and explosive, cathartic choruses echo the emotional fluctuations experienced by someone trapped in the grips of relapse and recovery.
The vocal performance serves as the emotional heart of the track, gripping and raw in its delivery. The vocalist shifts between muted vulnerability in the verses and unbridled intensity in the choruses, with their voice breaking under emotion before surging into guttural cries. This powerful vocal expression embodies the desperation, guilt, and fleeting hope that come with addiction. The lyrics present a stark depiction of someone navigating the temporary relief of their addiction while wrestling with the harsh truths they strive to avoid. The synergy between the vocal delivery and the relentless drive of the instrumentation is electrifying, drawing the listener deeper into the turmoil and internal struggle that characterize the song.
The overwhelming intensity reflects the chaotic journey of addiction, making “I’ll Quit Tomorrow” a visceral and profoundly impactful closing track for the EP. It encapsulates the gritty themes of “Chasing The Dragon,” leaving an emotional resonance that lingers well after the final note has faded. Gritty guitar riffs, primal vocals, and thunderous drums unite to create a conclusion that is as sonically thrilling as it is emotionally charged. For the band, this track is a favorite, and it’s easy to see why.
At its core, “Chasing The Dragon” is a record about the pursuit of something unattainable, the destruction and catharsis that can come with desire, and the chaotic energy that often accompanies it. Shaven Primates’ ability to blend dark-wave, art-rock, and post-punk elements into such a cohesive and compelling narrative shows their growth as musicians, pushing themselves further into uncharted territory while remaining emotionally grounded. Vocally, the EP is nothing short of dynamic. The lead singer’s performance is a masterclass in emotional delivery, swinging from tender moments to gut-wrenching screams that heighten the stakes of each track. The vocals are often paired with the energy of the instrumentation, creating a synergy that propels the EP forward with an infectious energy.
In conclusion, “Chasing The Dragon” is a fierce, raw, and undeniably powerful EP that will leave a lasting impact on anyone who listens. It’s an unapologetic exploration of desire, pain, and rebellion that will resonate with anyone who has ever felt the fire of unquenchable longing. Shaven Primates have once again proven their ability to redefine musical boundaries while crafting songs that are as emotionally rich as they are sonically complex. Fans of dark-wave, art-rock, and anyone searching for music that taps into the raw essence of human emotion will find “Chasing The Dragon” to be a thrilling and unforgettable experience.
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