Cha-Cha’s mixture of pop hooks and classic rock structures are set for introduction on their debut album “We Are”, released last month. Wanting to stay under the radar until their album was ready for release, one listen to the regurgitated pop structures is testimony to the band’s extended rehearsal time.
The band describes the formation of their sound as “a cross between dirty pop hymns and offbeat disco rock,” and a few of the tracks are convincing. A shame that the production, even on the more danceable “Cherokee,” sounds too clean to credit their influences, the press release listing The Virgins, The Strokes, The Police.
“Bring You Down,” a little way into the album sounds simpler with sweet vocals which sounds, more than anything, like a grown up McFly member reminiscing on past mistakes in the bedroom.
The boys are self-confessed perfectionists, and undoubtedly they can play their instruments well. “Seventies Casualty” builds layers with jagged pop riffs. “Juicy Lucy” has the elements of a hit with a minimal repeated riffs and shout-y vocals in the style of Aussie pop-rockers Jet. The production seems to have had a flattening effect, and for all their efforts and well-observed skills, the tracks lack impact.
The three-piece sound is one designed for live gigs where the bass and energy can be felt. The album plays with a distinctly 2D sound; after the success of their gigs resulted in the signing of the band and the production of this album, let’s hope it is not also the band’s downfall. Try and catch them live, judgement on this record alone may not do them justice.
5/10, out now on Pop Noodle Records
Words by Lizzie Simner
