Chilean duo Chroma Noir tout a sound steeped in apocalyptic new wave and cinematic atmospherics (drawing from both Vangelis and Blade Runner) on their new single, “Black Rain.” The track evolves from driving drum patterns into a cinematic exploration of environmental collapse, distinguished by a bold saxophone solo that pushes their darkwave pulse beyond traditional electronic boundaries. The result is a strong output from the project of Mauricio Solari (vocals) and Mario Castro (multi-instrumentalist/synthesizers).
An enthralling, cinematic soundscape emerges right away. Vibey, late-night synths and a whirring intensity of momentum culminate into an intoxicating rhythmic backing — pairing percussive pitter-pattering and pulsing bass. An effervescent synth emergence takes hold thereafter, adding a brisk sense of illumination to the nocturnal atmospheric flair. Rumbling bass and shimmers of synths intertwine enjoyably as a deep, impactful vocal lead appears; Mauricio Solari’s vocals channel a theatrically dark allure reminding fondly of a cross between Bauhaus’ Peter Murphy and The Chameleons’ Mark Burgess.
The title-referencing segment past midpoint is especially absorbing, as melodic vocal reflections build with replay-inducing allure amidst the synthwave-friendly electronic pull. A gripping turn shows past the three-minute mark, where an industrial, darker backing pairs with spoken-word vocals — shades of David Sylvian there. A free-flowing saxophone presence adds a final, captivating element to the moody mix, traversing with enjoyment to a memorable finale. “Black Rain” is a wholly effective, standout track from Chroma Noir.
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This and other tracks featured this month can be streamed on the updating Obscure Sound’s ‘Emerging Singles’ Spotify playlist.
We discovered this release via MusoSoup.
