Chalk’s New Single “Tongue” is Angsty and Electronic

Chalk is a post-punk powerhouse from Belfast, known for their techno-infused industrial punk. The duo is set to release their debut album Crystalpunk, on March 13. The final preview “Tongue,”which was released last week, feels like it could be the opening track to a Blade Runner movie - it's dark, electronic, and sexy. 

Lead singer Ross Cullen explained, “There was something ominous about the track and felt like it would be the beginning of something - I played the intro to Ben and it felt like a “Eureka” moment for us.” The track starts off with a high pitched tone that goes straight into a dark, synth melody along with Cullens’ vocals. “The depths of your tongue are killing me / And I can’t see just what you want / Do I go back to hell? / Or should I just go fuck myself?” The last line bleeds out as it takes on a robotic sound, adding an industrial beat to the mix. Cullen repeats the verse but this time louder and angrier. Adding screams to the mix, it feels angsty.

Touching on themes of toxic relationships, it feels like the perfect middle finger to lovers who have fucked you over. The track explodes into chaos as Cullen continues to scream as a guitar riff, played by Benedict Goddard, follows him. It makes you want to dance, scream, and bang your head all at the same time. There's then a back and forth of fast drums into an electronic transition into the last minute of the song. Cullen is screaming on the top of his lungs, repeating the verse one more time. The track slows down for a second before the drums pick up speed, Cullen then repeatedly screams “The depths of your tongue”, gradually building in intenseness, as it comes to a screeching halt. 

Chalk sets out on tour in March, playing a few shows in the US, then heading to Europe. Check out “Tongue” by Chalk, out now on all streaming platforms.