Chaselounge, one of Cincinnati’s most tenured independent bands, has been wowing audiences both young and old since their formation in 2002. Utilizing catchy hooks, sing-along choruses, and driving rhythms, the band creates its own unique brand of power-pop rock. 2010 finds them releasing their most accomplished album to date, the aptly titled “Hush of Sound.” A fitting title indeed, considering the band decided to scale back on live performances and focus solely on writing, arranging, and recording their third album for two years.
Chaselounge
“Hush of Sound” is a collection of 14 tracks that feature Chaselounge at their songwriting best. The album finds them teaming up once again with internationally acclaimed producer Erwin Musper (David Bowie/Van Halen). Musper came into the fold in late 2004 after hearing the band’s debut album “Mayday, Roger The Radio” and quickly signed them to his label (YeaYeaYeah Records). A follow up album quickly ensued, 2005’s “Black Plastic Ordinary” and the band found themselves playing countless shows across the region while enjoying CMJ chart success. In late 2007, Chaselounge began to concentrate on writing their third album. Recording sessions for “Hush of Sound” began officially at Musper’s Bamboo Room Studio in February of 2008. For two years, the band worked diligently on perfecting their brand of power-pop rock in the studio.
Chaselounge Live
The result of that diligence is a record that showcases the band’s ability to create timeless music. What sets “Hush of Sound” apart from other Chaselounge albums is its diversity. “Eyes Electric” offers a pulsating dance beat and hypnotic imagery, while songs like “Black Vultures” and “Nest Egg” feature pedal steel guitar and clarinet respectively. Lush vocal harmonies are featured throughout, highlighting lyrics that touch on themes of desperation and urgency. Driving guitars and soaring keyboard riffs round out the production. The result is an album that hits on all cylinders. Songs flow seamlessly into one another, and though not a concept album, HOS holds true to the concept of the album as a whole. Each song has a place and a purpose, and the arrangements are carefully crafted in ways that ensure each song reaches its full potential.
Since its release in July of 2010, the band has been hard at work to promote “Hush of Sound”. They’ve been featured on several radio and television programs, as well as many live appearances all over the Cincinnati area. When asked about their plans for the immediate future, frontman Shawny Scott answers: “We’re looking forward to getting out and playing some shows behind the album, and giving it the proper push that it deserves.”