Shaven Primates: Chasing The Dragon
Shaven Primates – Chasing the Dragon: A Dark-Wave Odyssey into Desire and Addiction
By Jack Rush
The Oxford-based quartet Shaven Primates have never been ones to shy away from the depths of human emotion. With their latest EP, Chasing the Dragon, they carve out a visceral, unrelenting soundscape that encapsulates the relentless pull of desire in all its forms. From the urgency of ambition to the chains of addiction, the band delivers a raw and immersive experience that redefines the edges of dark-wave, art-rock, and proto/post-punk.
The Sound: Gritty, Grand, and Uncompromising
From the first note, it’s clear that Chasing the Dragon is a more aggressive beast than the band’s previous work. While Birds Aren’t Real explored alternative thinking and Child of Dirt dove into childhood trauma and addiction, this EP feels like an explosion of primal energy. With grinding basslines, scorching guitars, and a fusion of modern and retro synths, the sonic palette is both haunting and electrifying. The band’s inspirations—ranging from the Velvet Underground to Prodigy—are evident but never derivative. Instead, Shaven Primates blend them into a distinctive, cohesive sound that feels fresh yet familiar.
The Tracks: A Journey Through Desire and Struggle
"Airwaves" – A Call for Connection Amid the Chaos
Lately, society has become obsessed with success and winning, often at the expense of connection. "Airwaves" tackles this theme head-on, urging listeners to embrace kindness and generosity instead of chasing fleeting victories. Musically, it’s a high-energy anthem, driven by pulsating rhythms, dynamic four-part harmonies, and a sense of urgency that grips the listener from start to finish.
"Babooshka" – A Bold Reinvention of a Kate Bush Classic
Covering Kate Bush is no small feat, but Shaven Primates rise to the challenge with a gender-reversed take on her 1980 hit "Babooshka." It’s a tribute that doesn’t just pay homage but reinterprets the song with modern sensibilities. With intricate drum fills, a more aggressive edge, and a deep appreciation for the original’s storytelling, the band delivers a fresh take that still retains the haunting beauty of Bush’s composition.
"I’ll Quit Tomorrow" – The Push and Pull of Addiction
Arguably the emotional core of the EP, "I’ll Quit Tomorrow" captures the endless cycle of addiction—the momentary highs, the crushing lows, and the self-deception that keeps it all going. The track’s gritty guitars, growling vocals, and thunderous drums make for a relentless, immersive listen. It’s a song that doesn’t just tell a story—it makes you feel the struggle, the desperation, and the fleeting euphoria that addiction brings.
Final Verdict: A Dark-Wave Triumph
With Chasing the Dragon, Shaven Primates continue to push their own creative boundaries, delivering a record that is both deeply personal and universally resonant. Their fearless approach to songwriting and sound design makes this EP an essential listen for fans of dark, intense, and thought-provoking music. Whether you’re drawn in by the anthemic energy of "Airwaves," the bold reinterpretation of "Babooshka," or the gut-wrenching honesty of "I’ll Quit Tomorrow," one thing is certain—Shaven Primates have crafted something that lingers long after the final note fades.
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