So many are probably curious as to where I got this peculiar title. Also, what exactly does it mean? Well first, I would like to tip my hat to the r/indieheads subreddit, for they were have a frequently updated thread called “Essential Listening Club.” The premise behind this is fairly simple, this thread provides a place for Reddit users to comment on an array of items that stood out on a signature record. For more in depth readers, Reddit also have a thread called “For Your Consideration” which is essentially the same thing, but contains more detail on the specific record. Here is where my piece comes in. This weekly recommendation is meant to tickle reader’s curiosity on legendary records, without providing an elongated, detailed rundown. So without further ado, my weekly recommendation is:

(am I really going to write my first weekly recommendation on a shoegaze band? Trust me, I had to do it for my first one. This is meant to e diverse, I promise)

Catherine Wheel: Chrome

Released: July 20th, 1993 

Mercury Records (U.S. Release), Fontana (U.K.)

Genre: Alternative Rock, Shoegaze

 

Catherine Wheel, also known as a medieval form of torturing the convicted, the name barely gives off the impression that it is sinister. This English brigade, however, is far from tame, channeling the experimental side of shoegaze with the rebellious demeanor of English rock. 

The band dazzled critics instantly during the height of the shoegaze phase with Ferment, going as high as 36 on the UK charts. Only a year later, the quintet fervently demanded more recognition with Chrome. Rob Dickenson (cousin of Bruce Dickenson of Iron Maiden, isn’t that wild?) and Brian Futter are still boasted to this day for their aptitude in songwriting (Death Cab and Interpol, ever heard of them?)

Many bands that were notoriously accepted in the genre look back and recognize the sheer art that this album was during the early 90’s. Chrome seemed to be the most aggressive and well-constructed of the bunch. Possessing elements of dream-morphed melodies and pertinent clarity of production from legendary producer, Gil Norton (Pixies, Echo & the bunnyman) allows this record to flourish in ways that earlier masterpieces couldn’t. A must listen. -JK