by Dan Goldin (@post_trash_)
With the name Chris, you’re never going to simply stumble upon this Toronto based band, but if you find your way to their music, you’re always in for a treat. The band began in 2015 after the dissolution of Animal Faces, a twisting post-hardcore band that carried a striking resemblance to some east coast favorites. Having released their debut EP, I Don’t Think Anything, back in 2017, its been relatively quiet since (though several members play in the equally great band, Fond). Chris mark their triumphant return with What Did I Do To Deserve This?, their full length debut, set for release on March 5th via Art of the Uncarved Block (PAX, Triples, Tang) and a paired down line-up, shifting from a quartet to a trio.
Lead single “Dull” shows that line-up changes and a prolonged wait for their album were all worth it. Recorded as a duo by Zach Van Horne (guitar/vocals) and Ryan Naray (drums/keys/clarinet), there’s a wooziness to the single that feels both subdued in attack and immediate in its melodic presence, crawling through a sludgy sort of mope rock. With close harmonies and a rhythmic haze that resonates with each slow placed hit and eventual deconstructed fills, Chris use a sense of patience to create something monolithic and beautiful. Fans of both fuzzy indie rock, slowcore, and dynamic post-hardcore are going to find something to love here.