Chemtrails

Often when referencing a debut album, it is from a young artist or group that is just getting an idea of what it means to be a musician. In such cases, even the most heralded debuts have an inexperience to them due to literal inexperience. With that said, every now and then there comes a first release from seasoned veterans, as is the case with the self titled debut from Saint Augustine’s Chemtrails. 

Chemtrails is made up of Gary West, John Gray, Greg Milosz, and Cleet Albertson. They started making themselves known over the last few years in the Saint Augustine scene, and some of that local love is found with this this 10 track album engineered by the old city’s own Cole Helman. 

One of the first things noticed is this is a raw recording full of life. It also very much reminds me of the 90s rock I grew up on. Both of these attributes are consistent throughout, giving an overall warmth musically while the vocal delivery brings a weight and almost earnestness. Whether the intent or not, this fun and lively rock combined with somber honest vocals is again something of the 90s era. Throughout the album these songs of life take us through relational ups and downs, past mistakes, social commentary, and impatiently looking for hope to come. Some stand out tracks like the single, “Riding On The Peace Train,” have a turned up Tom Petty vibe. Another, “Razzberry Wine,” written by John Gray has a classic rock feel like that of a perfect summer song. Closing out the album, “I Really Like It,” ends with some good vibes, as one may expect per the title. With it’s encouragement to shake one’s hips, this last track feels like Chemtrails is giving us something to look forward to despite the hard times we all experience.

Overall, this debut is a mature release, which as I mentioned before is not what one expects of a debut. Musically, Chemtrails brings lively rock and roll full of fun countered by the somber content of life. This is the soundtrack for happy hard times, musical honesty packaged in sunshine, and perhaps a perfect parallel for our world currently. 

Rock on and turn it up!