Chalk and Numbers ‰ÛÒ Parade EP (Never Better)

Chalk and Numbers  ‰ÛÒ Parade EP (Never Better)

Katie Cheyne

Whimsical and exuberantly poppy.

The first track of this EP may take you by surprise, the title “Pretty Colors‰” is definitely appropriate because that is in fact what the lyrical content is all about; there is actually a part of the song where Sable Young lists different colors. Chalk and Numbers‰’ sound is comparable to decent bands such as Tennis and La Luz, but unlike those artists the uninspiring lyrics may have them overlooked. “Boy‰” is a bit of a step up from the opener as it begins with a keyboard beating away similar to a middle-schooler‰’s metronome. When they hit the chorus, the rest of the band joins in creating an undeniably catchy tune. “In The Dark‰” and “So Much For the Bay‰” are the mellower tunes on the EP, showing off Sable Yong‰’s ethereal, while also graceful vocals, just before they conclude with their groovy number, “Things You Do.‰” There are some influences from the sixties attempting to break through into the melodies without the band ever fully committing to them. Chalk and Numbers have their arms wide open to accept any and all pop characteristics.

RIYL: Vivian Girls, La Luz, Tennis
Recommended Tracks: 2, 5