Chout, the hard-rock band from south Chicago, recently released their latest single Seasons. The track channels classic riff-based metal reminiscent of early Metallica, and expertly mixes it with a more modern heavy rock sound akin to Royal Blood. It’s a song filled with attitude that not only rocks, but also has room to breathe and evolve into a much more artistic tune – even showcasing some progressive elements. Chout is an extremely talented band, and Seasons sees them at the top of their game.
Seasons wastes no time in letting the listener know what it’s all about. From the very first few seconds, every member of the band firmly establishes themselves in the song, and the high energy persists throughout the entire five-minute run time. The vocal and rhythms are all centered around an instantly recognizable, grunge inspired guitar riff. Guitarist Matt Morgan does an admirable job bringing different styles of rock together through his play style and choice of tones. Morgan’s guitar work is balanced by Brendan Maier’s unique tour de force vocals that are equal parts James Hetfield and Layne Staley.
The first few minutes of Seasons is a loving homage to the music that inspired it, but about half way through the track we see Chout become a little more brazen and just let loose. It’s by far the most interesting part of the track and highlights each instrument, and Maier’s vocal, in a particularly bright spotlight that will make even the most stern person want to head bang. Pulsating rhythms are met with growling screams that all culminate in one of the sickest guitar solos of recent memory.
Seasons is a fantastic song, but it’s not for everybody, nor does it try to be. Chout is a band that knows what they are about, and are making music for themselves. While their music has elements of nostalgia dripping through, it’s refreshing to hear an act so unapologetically true to the music they want to create.
Find & follow Chout on Facebook & Instagram or visit their Website.
