DC Band Takes a Chance

By Broadside Staff Writer Ian Crocker

There is no denying that the storied lineage of the DC music scene comes with big expectations for most up-and-coming bands today. DC's own The Chance are the latest group to emerge who are hoping to carrying the torch of such noisy greats as Fugazi and Gray Matter. Their latest EP "Dimensions" depicts the group's maturing and moving in a more cohesive direction.

The first track on the album "In the Middle of a Dream" opens with a steady build-up complete with Explosions in the Sky-like guitar effects from singer/guitarist Joshua Padgett and the simmering yet ferocious drumwork from Viraj DeSilva. I'm going to make it clear that the drumming throughout this album is fantastic and anyone who is into hectic, crashing percussion will find it to be an enjoyable aspect of this album.

Where the first track is rather atmospheric, the second track "Turning Inside" is more of a straightforward rocker that is accentuated by wavering guitars and jittery bass courtesy of Padgett and bassist Finley Martin. After a quick instrumental interlude, we get to the final, and in my opionion biggest let-down of the album.

The final track "Victoria" is a incoherent and amateur ode to someone who appears to be the band's number-one fan. Good news and bad news, Victoria... you had a song written for you, but unfortunately it is a messy attempt to recreate the disjointed brilliance of post-punk visionaries Wire and Joy Division.

Overall, I would say that The Chance's four song EP is a inconsistent affair ranging from brooding and talented experimentation to straight-forward indie rock cliché.

Final grade: C