Chat Pile – Who Loves The Sun
Chat Pile – Who Loves The Sun
The Flenser
Release date: 04/09/26
Review by: Oli Gonzalez
8/10
How Chat Pile has made such an impact on the world of metal in such a short space of time should be studied and documented. Barely 6 years since forming, they find themselves on the eve of their third album, “Who Loves The Sun” and find themselves with an audience that’s only growing larger day by day. This is one that took a while to digest but now it’s easy to see why they’re gaining such a following. Let’s get straight into dissecting this monstrosity!
The album kicks off with ‘Creature’, and Chat Pile’s signature sound is asserted. Raygun’s abrasive and chaotic vocals soar above the grooves and caustic density that the guitar, bass and drums lay down. A pattern that continues into ‘Deep Blue’. Though things seem to be calmer and more reflective, with the distortion pedals switched off and Raygun’s vocals sounding equally as tranquil and almost soothing. Capturing a vibe like that of Deftones. Until the crunch and friction return, as does the angst in Raygun’s voice. One of lead songs of the album, the all-consuming groove and sheer gravity of ‘PEN I S Mall’ results in a certified banger that’s almost impossible to avoid headbanging to! The energy shifts to a more stoner and desert kind of vibe, especially with the bass and guitars being allowed to ring out and reverberate rather than the tight and frantic formations from earlier.
Guest vocalists are wonderful when used right. Chat Pile utilise the voices of Claire Hannah and Brittany Sawtelle (Nightosphere) during the choruses of ‘Intruder’ and ‘Influence’, acting as supplementary enhancements and not hogging the limelight, the band’s identity not compromised. This proves that Chat Pile can provide melodic hooks and focal points, alongside their instantly memorable riffs. Just like ‘October All The Time’, where the electric guitar is ditched for the acoustic. Raygun demonstrates the calmer soothing tone to his voice. It feels like the band are building to something. Something bigger. Can we expect an avalanche of riffs? A wall of distortion washes over you, brief and warmly inviting, rather than lengthy and crushing. Then it’s all over!
It’s easy to see why Chat Pile are winning so many over. “Who Loves The Sun” is not a quick hit of dopamine. It’s about as alternative as it gets, challenging and requires patience. But commit to it, give it time, and you’ll be more than rewarded by a band who are asserting themselves as the future of metal!
TRACKLISTING:
01. Creature
02. Deep Blue
03. Same Rules
04. PEN I S MALL
05. Shrine
06. Intruder
07. Christabel ‘26
08. Influence
09. Family Funeral
10. October All the Time
LINKS:
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