Single Review: Chasing Kites

Chasing Kites from Chris Bates is song that pulls a lot of different influences and takes the listener on a smooth ride through turbulent times.

One thing that is evident from the first vocal lines are how smooth and silky they are. Perfectly mixed above the cinematic backdrop of sound, it is exactly the sort of vocal you would expect from modern pop. The delivery is sincere and the performance is one of restraint during the verse. Just as the song gets to the chorus, a slight drop away opens up for a little more intensity in the vocal performance. Chris showcases his voice in many ways with a little touch of falsetto or head voice when needed. I was really waiting for a bit more intensity in the vocal to help boost the song a little more, but this never happened. It is a minor detail that does not detract from the song, but something that with a live performance Chris could explore.

It is clear that time and effort has been put in the production of this track, helmed by up and coming producer EDY. A lot of what makes the song tick along is the use of different synth sounds that do not over do the song, they simply await your attention. When you hear the different parts on multiple listens you will know there are nods to EDM, groups from the 80’s and also French Duo, M83.

Overall, this is a solid track that could fit in nicely in today’s world of pop, and one that should be on the radio. Catchy, well produced and sung. Great work.