Following a string of alt-blues rock soaked singles in 2023, Chloe Chadwick’s fresh country-inspired sound has paved the way for her latest EP, Same Old Brand New Me, which seems to mark a real watershed moment in her career. Released this August 18, the six-track release – recorded at Manchester’s Hope Mill Studios and Inspire, in Stone – stars a heady mixture of sounds and stories that reflect on a somewhat tumultuous past. But it is also clear she is more than ready to dispense with the ghosts of her past, with a new-found fire and energy in her soul.
Released as a single back in May, Rattling Bones was our first taste of this extended play, making it the perfect opener for the record. It kicks off Same Old Brand New Me with a moody and atmospheric blend of muted guitars and country charm, with Chloe’s soulful vocals leading the charge with an air of empowerment and introspection.
Speaking on the track, she said: “Rattling Bones is about taking back control of one’s life, and making that tough decision to walk away, even if it means starting again from nothing, or tearing your world or family apart.
“I’ve been there, and actually doing something about it, when enough is enough, is the gift of strength. Even if it takes everything out of you doing it! Having been there myself hence why I wrote it, sometimes the grass is greener!”
Dark and empowering, Rattling Bones starts off slow with melancholic undertones, but as the decision to reclaim control arrives, you can feel that power grow throughout the track to fuel a romping final chorus. It’s brave and bold – and that’s an energy that maintains throughout the entirety of the EP.
Temper Gene follows, in which Chloe Chadwick showcases her versatility by venturing into contemporary rock-pop territory for a more universal appeal. This was the third and final single before the release of the fourth EP, and we may now have proof in the old saying: ‘leave the best till last’.
The song’s gentle acoustic opening sets the stage for her delicate vocals to shine, from the haunting and ethereal verses that coax the track to life, to the powerful chorus that awakens the senses – it showcases Chloe’s ability to craft compelling musical arcs, bringing with it a sense of grit and resilience.
Previously unheard, Make Up 4 Lost Time offers a grooving riff with lyrics that conjure the dusty roads of America. Think Tombstone, Arizona, saloon bars and cowboy boots with a double whiskey – conveying a sense of nostalgia and reflection, it’s almost cinematic and made to be played on modern Western series. Chloe explores a more introspective theme, with melodic intricacies adding depth to the storytelling, creating a poignant and relatable narrative about the person that feels like home.
This is something that bleeds into Soulmate, which Chloe wrote about her wife. Documenting the transformative power of love, Chloe celebrates LGBTQ+ relationships through her heartfelt lyrics and earnest delivery. The blend of guitar-driven melodies and emotive vocals creates an uplifting and anthemic chorus, serving as a beautiful tribute to the strength and impact of finding your ‘person’.
It effortlessly blends pop, rock and Americana sensibilities in an ode to Chloe’s love of the open road, with nods to country influences like Carrie Underwood, with hints of soul from the likes of SWV.
Moving through the EP, Chloe’s rendition of Creedence Clearwater Revival Have You Ever Seen The Rain adds a refreshing twist to this classic song, infusing it with her unique alt-americana flair. It’s one that’s been covered by legends like Rod Stewart, Joan Jett and Ramones over the years, with Chloe’s emotive vocals lending a sense of authenticity and depth to the cover, while retaining the song’s timeless charm. There are nostalgic traces of the Americana vibe that elevated her debut album Dustbowl Jukebox, released in 2016, but her interpretation pays homage to the original while showcasing her own artistic perspective, giving the 1971 hit a refresh some 50 years on.
Closing Same Old Brand New Me is a piano version of Soulmate, which gives the listener a second chance to appreciate the track’s emotional core in a stripped-down arrangement. Chloe’s vocals take on a more intimate quality, emphasising the vulnerability and tenderness of the lyrics. This version serves as a stunning contrast to the original, showcasing the single’s versatility and highlighting Chadwick’s ability to connect with listeners on a personal level. This would be the perfect b-side – I can almost hear the crackle of the needle as it hums after the song has ended.
Same Old Brand New Me is a masterful showcase of Chloe Chadwick’s growth as an artist and as a person, demonstrating resilience, authenticity and empowerment.
With a collection of songs that seamlessly blend alt-americana, country, pop, rock, and blues influences, the EP highlights her ability to effortlessly transition between genres while maintaining her signature style. Each track is a testament to Chloe’s personal journey, offering a sonic ride through varying emotions and experiences. It feels like a real cathartic release, and despite some difficult times, Chloe remains glowing with hope, optimism and strength.
With clever instrumental and vocal hooks around every corner, you can listen to Same Old Brand New Me here:
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