1.Can you give us an update on what has been going on with the band since the recording and release of the new album?
We actually began tracking drums and guitars and piano a week before we released “Where We Live”. Since COVID-19 cancelled all our plans for touring we stuck to writing new music and have an album and split schedule for 2021.
2.So far this year you have released a full length and a split, musically how do they differ from the stuff you have released in the past?
Starting with our split in March with Grid Failure - this was a bit more experimental and had less overall vocal performance in favor of different instrumentation. Our new album, “Where We Live”, is a continuation into post-black metal and post-rock, with a bit more grunge and shoegaze elements.
3.What are some of the lyrical topics and subjects the band explores with the newer music and also how would you describe your progress as songwriters over the years?
Lyrical topics have included grief, death and dying, addiction, political themes, apocalyptical, ect… As songwriters we’ve stopped trying to put anything in a box - and avoid what we find easy to write in favor of what we are passionate about, while continuing to evolve in sound.
4.All of the band members are also involved with other bands, what is it that you bring into the music of Chrome Waves that you are not able to do with your other groups?
We like to explore more basic song structure, and simpler instrumentation in favor of melody, textures, and hooks.
5.What is the meaning and inspiration behind the name 'Chrome Waves'?
It is a song by Ride.
6.Can you tell us a little bit more about the artwork that is presented on the new album cover?
It was created by our friend Brian Sheehan of Legerdemain Art.
7.From 2012 to 2018 there was no music being released, can you tell us a little bit more about what has been going on during that time frame?
The band members were all involved in other projects at the time, and the band was essentially “restarted” in late 2018 by Jeff, the only remaining original member, shortly followed by James.
8.Recently you were a part of a split with 'Gridfailure', what are your thoughts on the other project that participated on the recording?
Gridfailure makes very reality challenging music that is on par with soundtracks in my opinion. He would do a great job with a movie or video game.
9.What are some of the best shows that the band has played over the years and also how would you describe your stage performance?
I can only speak to the last year since we reformed and began playing live, but some of our “local” shows in Indianapolis and Chicago have been the best in my experience. Also not local, Ottawa Canada, all in 2019. We are very performative and haven’t relied on backing tracks yet at this point, we pull a wall of sound out of our instruments and enjoy creating something different than the record at every stop.
10.On a worldwide level how has the reaction been to your music by fans of post black metal?
To be honest, it’s not really a genre we’ve followed closely. I think it has been overall pretty positive, but most people aren’t sure what genre to throw us in, because it varies a bit by each release, especially the new LP, Where We Live. We’re comfortable with whatever genre tag is given.
11.What is going on with some of the other bands or musical projects these days that some of the band members are a part of?
James is releasing an album with his band Amiensus on 10/02/2020, and his other band Comatose later this year. Jeff just released his first album under his solo project Deeper Graves, and has another project in the pipeline. Dustin is working on new albums with Wretch and Demicurous
12.I heard that the band is currently working on a new album, what can we expect musically once it is released?
Indeed, we have actually been tracking this whole week. Without giving too much away, don’t expect it to be metal, and don’t expect harsh vocals.
13.What are some of the bands or musical styles that have had an influence on your music and also what are you listening to nowadays?
Some influences include indie rock, 80’s and 90’s rock, as well as grunge and shoegaze, and 80’s City Pop. Speaking only for myself, i’ve enjoyed albums by Tricot, Ringo Deathstarr, Deftones, Narrow Head, Nothing
14.Before we wrap up this interview, do you have any final words or thoughts?
We hope everyone enjoys the new album and takes a dive into our discography after if they are new to the band and enjoy a diverse collection of music produced over the last 2 years. Please stay safe, wear your mask, and we hope to see you in 2021 on tour in support of this album and the next!
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