The latest full length release by Chevelle features many of the familiar aspects of the band fans have grown to love – driving guitars, strong melodies and a familiar groove that listeners have grown familiar with. La Gargola (Epic/Sony) does not stray too far from their trademark dark, guitar driven sound but slowly keeps maturing its sound over time.
‘Ouija Board’ and ‘An Island’ open up with a familiar barrage of guitars immediately upon first listen, with Pete Loeffler’s familiar vocal stylings that keeps it interesting. Other tunes like ‘Take Out the Gunman’ borrow from past Tool comparisons, but also making it their own sound at the same time.
Many of the songs lean towards a variety of darker themes and a heavier guitar rock sound that helps them stand out musically. Songs like ‘Twinge’ and ‘An Ocean’ experiment with a slower tempo sounds, falling somewhere between Radiohead and The Cure, which helps diversify their sound.
The wall of guitar on ‘Jawbreaker’ becomes one of their highlights, borrowing somewhat from Helmet and Foo Fighters in parts, and letting the angst loose in the process. ‘Hunter Eats Hunter’ and ‘Under The Knife’ also goes heavier on the guitars on each respective tune, showing a darker side of the band.
While the band clearly wears its influences on its sleeves with pride, Chevelle still shines through with strong songwriting and driving guitars that attracted fans over the years. La Gargola is the next chapter and should help attract a new batch of fans who may have missed out on them the first time around.
8.0/10
REI NISHIMOTO