Chappaqua Wrestling’s debut album Plus Ultra is a kaleidoscope of sound that merges the dreamy textures of shoegaze with the swagger of Britpop, creating a sonic identity that is both nostalgic and forward-thinking. The Brighton-based band channels the shimmering guitars of My Bloody Valentine and the anthemic confidence of Oasis (once you hear it you can’t unhear it), crafting a record that feels like a love letter to the ’90s with a distinctly modern edge. They have this pretty unique ability to layer ethereal melodies over driving rhythms with vocals oscillating between heartfelt vulnerability and a defiant swagger. It’s an album that has been somewhat of a go-to on my morning runs– there’s nothing like hitting the pavement at 6:30am with your shirt off in 40 degree weather with the iconic opener “Full Round Table” kicking off right when you turn it up into fifth gear.
Standout Songs: “Full Round Table”, “Wayfinding”, “Need You No More”, “Wide Asleep”
