The Chap are a new group formed by Karamasov guitarist Johannes vonWeizsaecker. If you heard Lo's _Fresh Fruit_ budget compilation from ayear or two back, this is the Johannes behind the stunning "My MyRock'n'Roll", a catchy guitar number evoking a feel of casualsophistication. The knowing hipness persists on this a 10" mini-albumof original and witty instrumental rock. Having named themselves afterthe modern gentleman's publication which offers advice on the semioticsof smoking and of facial hair, and which has a "sartorial agony" page,they're in no position to deny the accusation that they're pretentious,but frankly this is what I want in a band -- particularly when, as withThe Chap, the pretence is more of a wry smile than a sneering glance."Yes" puts a buzzing analogue synth riff over a tight motorik rhythm,but most tracks slow things down, allowing Johannes's cool and noodlinglead guitar work to take precedence. "Exalarm" reiterates the Krautrockinfluence. For an alternative rock group they're more than usuallysonically liberal: a vaguely musique concrete aesthetic comes throughin the choice of the samples that are scattered about, and there's anod to cinema soundtracking in the piano-led "The Creak". It's quite avaried set and a very promising debut.
samples:
Read More
