Chroma Queens is the first single from upcoming LP release Exiscens (due for release on December 14), which is the first release from Auckland experimental rock act Kerretta for over four years. The band are comprised of bass player William Waters; drummer H. Walker; and guitarist David Holmes; when no vocalists are involved, the instrumental quality must be that much higher, but considering the group have been around for thirteen years, you can know to expect something spectacular.
Chroma Queens starts off softly, with some palm-muted guitar that reminds me of the vibe of Incubus' S.C.I.E.N.C.E. until it breaks into full distorted gloriousness. Transitioning between clean melodies and heavy chugging distortion, the track is paradoxically melodious in its dissonance. Capable of forming imagery of hulking machines marching through a heavy rainfall, Chroma Queens feels like it is simultaneously running at two different speeds, balancing the nimble lighter notes with the encumbering distortion.
Industrial and almost mathematical, each riff is a recurring pattern that crafts the final product. Running at 4:05 in length, it feels shorter than it is, and no doubt leaves one wanting more.
From Tamaki Makaurau, Aotearoa / New Zealand, Kerretta have been described as the mutant offspring formed by a coalescence of Kyuss and Kraftwerk.
Compared to driving a Ferrari on magic mushrooms, the three-piece have been nominated for the ‘New Zealand Taite Prize’ (equivalent to the Mercury Award), have shared stages with the likes of The Breeders, Trail of Dead, Mantar, Yob, Pallbearer, Amen Ra, Mono, Explosions In The Sky, This Will Destroy You and have torn through venues in Australia, New Zealand, the US and Europe.
For fans of: Russian Circles, TV On The Radio, QOTSA, Moon Duo, Mogwai.