Kaleidoscope World is not just the starting point for The Chills, but an insight into the world of New Zealand guitar-pop and the ‘Dunedin Sound’ – an influence which carries on to indie-pop bands around the world today.
Originally released in 1986, the compilation captures the magical early period recordings of The Chills and oozes excitement and possibility. Now set to be re-issued on a deluxe 2xLP and CD set, it will feature six bonus b-sides, demos and live tracks plus an expanded gatefold cover with photos, posters and liner notes from music journalist Martin Aston.
The Chills' first introduction came via the 1982 Dunedin Double compilation – featuring (The Chills, The Verlaines, Sneaky Feelings and The Stones) who all hailed from Dunedin. Recorded on a portable 4-track it was distinctly lo-fi and in tune with the DIY ethic at the heart of the burgeoning Flying Nun label.
The spaciousness and remoteness of New Zealand itself matched with the glowing songs of chief chill Martin Phillipps, who like Syd Barrett and Brian Wilson, all had an innate ability to sound both joyous and sad within a moment.
Kaleidoscope World has a unique bittersweet innocence from the title track through to the happy - sad aura of “Frantic Drift” and “Rolling Moon.” Amongst all the fragile melodies mixed with a childlike wonder, is “Pink Frost” – for many The Chills’ most beloved track – an eerie, haunting track, the band’s first ‘hit'.
The Chills' - Kaleidoscope World
2xLP, CD & DL OUT AUGUST 19 ON FLYING NUN RECORDS