New EP from Shaven Primates

Oxford-based rock band Shaven Primates have been on an exciting musical adventure since starting out back in 2017. Defined by their alternative sound that blends elements of dark wave, art rock and post punk, the band’s sonic offering is equally original and powerful. Their music explores bold topics with uncompromising conviction, framing themes of fear, love and anger, wrapped up in impactful arrangements of slick guitars, powerful basslines and a fusion of retro and modern synths. It’s a sound that not only engages but offers listeners a therapeutic journey through its emotional context.

The band draws inspiration from a diverse array of artists including The Velvet Underground, Kate Bush, Tool, Prodigy, Yes, Clash, David Bowie, Porcupine Tree and Pink Floyd. Despite these influences, Shaven Primates’ work remains entirely their own, driven by their collective passion for music. Led by vocalist Mark Elphinstone, whose personal journey has profoundly shaped the band’s identity, after a 17-year hiatus, Mark’s return to music sparked the formation of Shaven Primates as he began turning the painful chapters of his life into musical expressions.

The band debuted in 2021 with their single “Child of Dirt,” followed by an album of the same name that firmly established their ability to deliver powerful musical moments. Building on this momentum, they’ve since dropped a string of well-received tracks and their first EP, Birds Aren’t Real, which arrived last year. Now they’re back with new material, bringing us their latest release with the new three-track EP titled Chasing The Dragon.

Moving away from themes of childhood trauma, addiction and alternative thinking that defined earlier releases, Chasing The Dragon tackles the subject of desire. The EP’s sound reflects this shift, embracing a grittier, more visceral tone that drips pure rock energy from start to finish. Opened by “Airwaves,” a moody atmosphere descends with the ominous plucks of guitar and drifting textures met by processed tones and the rising shuffle of drums. Launching with charging rhythm and commanding vocal performance, the track serves up a driving slice of brooding rock built on galloping drums, dark arrangement and gripping melodic writing.

With their cover of Kate Bush’s “Babooshka,” delicate guitar textures and the strike of drums are met by expressive vocals to form a downtempo, hazy alternative rock scene. With an intricate balance of airy tones and raspy vocals, bursts of lively energy and stomping rhythm pepper the track with spirited ebb and flow, resulting in a theatrical outing that puts the band’s creativity and original sound on full display.

Closing the EP with “I’ll Quite Tomorrow,” intricate pulsing rhythms, twanging guitars, crashing and dramatic vocal style collide to deliver an enveloping alternative jam. With abrupt energy shifts and soaring lead guitar flourishes, it’s a superb finale to the band’s explosive new EP as they continue to impress on their enthralling musical journey.

Listen to Chasing The Dragon below