When you search online for “chapel,” images of cathedrals, churches and other worship sanctuaries may appear, but, if you’re lucky enough, you’ll stumble upon the talented indie-alt duo Chapel — a band that has just released your new favorite song. Out May 28, “Crashing Out” is a unique, addicting track that puts a magnifying glass on our deepest insecurities, opening listeners up to a world of relatable pop-infused lyrics.
Ever since their debut EP Sunday Brunch dropped in 2017, Carter Hardin (vocals, guitar) and Kortney Grinwis (drums) haven’t stopped working, steadily pumping out clever synth-laced tunes while keeping one thing consistent: their dedication to connection with fans. The Nashville-based duo released album Modern Nature last summer after a few-year break, which was certainly worth the wait; it gave the world a seven-song body of work that embodies everything quintessentially Chapel.
Now, the rocker best friends are back, releasing what sounds like their best work yet. “Up All Night,” released in March, features catchy melodies intertwined with Hardin’s infectious vocals, creating a perfectly curated and matured pop sound. The newest addition to Chapel’s discography, “Crashing Out,” is a whirlwind of freak-out emotion.
Upon pressing play, listeners step into Hardin’s brain as he begins the song by admitting his current chaotic crash-out state, feeling simultaneously trapped within himself, and also as if he’s watching his body from above. The chorus leads listeners into a pure-pop world, covered in synths and oozing with addictive drums from Grinwis.
“I feel my eyes are twitching / I know my voice is bitching / But no one knows what to do”
Hardin’s vocals particularly stand out along the beat, portraying the sentiment of feeling behind in life and like a burden perfectly well — simply through the tone of delivery alone. The verses are steadier, still being pushed forward by Grinwis’ drums until we reach the pre-chorus, where Hardin’s voice is purposefully isolated with a shaker. In the pre-choruses, we hit the emotional turning points of the song; this is the moment where everything Hardin is anxious about reaches the surface, until it explodes into a lively chorus of admittance: “I’m crashing out, babe.”
Hardin and Grinwis have been collaborating for a decade now, and each release feels fresher and better than the ones prior. Chapel, while having toured alongside noble bands such as Sum 41, Waterparks and Pierce the Veil, has crafted a sound of their own that isn’t really reminiscent of anyone else — which is what keeps them so popular, and is what makes them remain current in a world of fierce competition.
Chapel is set to release much more music this year after “Crashing Out,” on top of supporting Michigander on tour this fall.
Keep up with Chapel:
Website / Instagram / Spotify / Apple Music / YouTube / TikTok
