The Chameleons UK: "This Never Ending Now"

During the later half of the 80's and deep into the 90's, a virtually unknown band from Manchester, England released a nearly perfect series of atmospheric modern rock recordings. Possessing a uniquely English vocal style and an extremely processed electric guitar style, the Chameleons UK always maintained a death-grip upon the most important musical element: melody.

Their songs aren't of the typical verse-chorus-bridge-chorus variety. Instead, the tracks often start with an eerie electric guitar riff, then the singing by Mark Burgess (also on bass) adds to the texture. The Chameleons UK released one brilliant CD in 2001, Why Call it Anything? This album is a must-have for those who are intimate with their music. Others may wish to start with the harder rocking Strange Times.

In 2003, the band decided to enter the studio and re-imagine their favorite tracks in an acoustic setting. Even though their previous studio records were heavy on production tricks, the songs chosen for This Never Ending Now are every bit as powerful as the original recordings. The standout track on this record is the epic "Second Skin." Beginning with a lovely acoustic guitar pattern, Burgess' quiet vocals ride above the instrumental melody. The aching beauty of his singing the lines "I realize the miracle is due...I dedicate this melody to you...but is the stuff dreams are made of..." actually transports the listener to a melancholy state of consciousness. Suddenly, the percussion and guitars collide into a wondrous cacophony of the best that modern rock is able to offer, leaving you drained of energy and ambition.

Other amazing tracks populate this recording: There's a brilliant cover of Bowie's "Moonage Daydream," the insistent melodic riffing on "Swamp Thing," and a stunning version of "Miracles and Wonders," which features a strange bit of toasting from Kwasi Asante.

This Never Ending Now is available now from Emusic.com. The album is free of all digital rights management software (DRM). I hope you are able to hear this beautiful recording.