Chris Bates - Single Review: Chasing Kites
Chasing Kites from Chris Bates is song that pulls a lot of different influences and takes the listener on a smooth ride through turbulent times.
One thing that is evident from the first vocal lines are how smooth and silky they are. Perfectly mixed above the cinematic backdrop of sound, it is exactly the sort of vocal you would expect from modern pop. The delivery is sincere and the performance is one of restraint during the verse. Just as the song gets to the chorus, a slight drop away opens up for a little more intensity in the vocal performance. Chris showcases his voice in many ways with a little touch of falsetto or head voice when needed. I was really waiting for a bit more intensity in the vocal to help boost the song a little more, but this never happened. It is a minor detail that does not detract from the song, but something that with a live performance Chris could explore.
It is clear that time and effort has been put in the production of this track, helmed by up and coming producer EDY. A lot of what makes the song tick along is the use of different synth sounds that do not over do the song, they simply await your attention. When you hear the different parts on multiple listens you will know there are nods to EDM, groups from the 80's and also French Duo, M83.
Overall, this is a solid track that could fit in nicely in today's world of pop, and one that should be on the radio. Catchy, well produced and sung. Great work.
About Chris Bates
Hailing from a childhood background of classical violin, much to his mother’s dismay Bates made the switch to pop music at age 13. "It’s my Dad’s fault." Bates remembers long family car trips in which they would listen to his dad’s pop CDs. It was during these years that Bates grew a deep love for songwriting and pop music.
He began writing a string of songs that he performed at open mic nights around Auckland, testing the waters. Entering a variety of competitions including Smokefree Rockquest and busking regularly, Bates started to become known in the Auckland music scene. In 2015 he was recognised with the Rising Star Award from the Variety Artists Club of New Zealand, joining winners including Annie Crummer, Lizzy Marvelly and Lisa Crawley.
Visit the muzic.net.nz Profile for Chris Bates
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