Too often in the modern world, we are introduced to more of the same, and this can dull the soul. A product of not venturing out of a comfort zone for fear of being challenged, in music, sometimes it is a fantastical feeling to try something new. That is where the band chokecherry enters the frame; tempting you into a dream-like abyss of guitars, bass, drums, and haunting vocals.
Named after a non-poison, yet bitter fruit historically used for healing by Native American tribes across the North American continent, it seems almost appropriate considering the ethereal sound of this trio’s music. Originally formed in the Bay Area of Northern California by Vocalist/Guitarist Izzie A. Clark, and Vocalist/Bassist E. Scarlett Levinson, Abri Crocitto on drums soon joined them. Together they create a brand of Alternative Rock akin to Shoegaze acts like My Bloody Valentine or Slowdive.
First introducing themselves to the broader world with their single “Glass Jaw” in May of 2023, the unification of Clark and Levinson’s voices has since struck curiosity among a growing base of listeners. Signed on with Fearless Records, the track “Around Around Around” emerged in August of 2023, but nearly another year passed before any more new samples of chockcherry were heard. Creating a sort of yearning, in the Summer of 2024 they returned, dropping a slew of new songs with “Afterglow,” “No Other Place,” and “Messy Star.”
Each offers you further insight into what makes this group of musicians tick, what is uncovered is rich bass lines, layered, distorted guitars, irresistible melodies, and stunningly mesmerizing dueling vocals. A breath of fresh air in a music scene overwhelmed with mediocrity, now on October 25th chokecherry at last assemble a collection of their songs as a proper EP called Messy Star. Announced in September, it is their debut EP which features a total of five songs. Including the previously released namesake track, “Afterglow” and “No Other Place,” the two new unheard pieces here are ”I Know You,” along with “Mirror Mirror.” Each offering something unique, “I Know You” is more of a foggy, melodic slow-tempo track, whereas “Mirror Mirror” projects a more ruckus up-tempo, almost Punk Rock vibe.
Perfect compliments to chokecherry’s previously released songs, if you are new to the band, it is highly recommended you indulge in “Afterglow” and “Messy Star” as introductions. Both run the gamut of moods, if you enjoy getting lost in a thick ambiance of sound that feels like another place and time, you will be delightfully engaged.
Overall, chockcherry creates the type of music that would easily fit in with the potent early ‘90s Alternative Rock scene. However, they are not derivative; because they have a genuine approach and exceptional songwriting ability. It will be exciting to see when they put out a full-length album of material, but until then it is highly recommended to check out chockcherry, because Cryptic Rock gives the Messy Star EP 4.5 out of 5 stars.
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