If you’ve been searching for an album that not only captivates your ears but also delves deep into the human experience, look no further than Chief Broom’s debut album, “hidden in plain sight.” This isn’t just any album; it’s a heartfelt tribute and a compelling narrative that’s poised to make waves in the music scene.
One of the standout elements of this album is its gnarly guitar riffs and thick, mucky distortion that flavors every song. Guitarists William “Cheese” Cheeseman and Frankie Tillo bring a raw energy that harks back to the glory days of grunge, adding a layer of grit and intensity that’s palpable. This isn’t just music you listen to; it’s music you feel in your bones.
The album bursts onto the scene with an ethereal, fleeting introduction aptly named “snuff.” Its instrumentation and vocals wander in a way that feels like a journey towards something profound. Emerging from this sonic haze, a palpable force takes shape, propelling the title track, “hidden in plain sight,” into the spotlight with a rhythm as compelling as it is enigmatic.
The emotional depth of the album is rooted in the band’s journey, particularly the life and untimely passing of TJ Tuck, Shadrach’s late brother and a co-founder of Chief Broom. TJ, who tragically died at 22 from a fentanyl overdose, was a cornerstone of the Boise music scene. His influence permeates the album, from his drumming to snippets of vocal and musical memories from his and Shadrach’s childhood.
But “hidden in plain sight” is more than just a musical endeavor; it’s a mission. Chief Broom is committed to carrying on TJ’s legacy and completing what he started. The album explores themes of exploration, coming of age, friendship, addiction, and interpersonal conflict. It’s a raw and honest look at life in a small town that’s changing as rapidly as its inhabitants. The narrative culminates in a message of hope, focusing on recovery, coming to terms with trauma, and ultimately, self-acceptance.
Adding another layer of richness to the album is its diverse instrumentation. Centered around the songwriting of Boise, Idaho-based multi-instrumentalist Shadrach Tuck, the album features a revolving cast of collaborators. Contributions from Max Voulelis on drums and Jake Marchus on keys add depth and complexity, while strings and woodwind contributions from Ben Youtz, Kayce Guthmiller, and Shaun Scrivner elevate the album to new heights.
The album isn’t just a relentless barrage of gritty guitars and layers of grunge. Take, for example, the track “suspended in air,” which serves as an interlude to “bless my ignorance.” This piece is a captivating, piano-driven number that lays bare the emotional depth and allure of the band. It’s as if the piano keys themselves are narrating a heartfelt story, offering a refreshing contrast to the album’s more intense moments.
The album was originally tracked and engineered by the Tuck brothers’ father, Terre Tuck, in their childhood home in Star, Idaho, back in 2019. Since then, it has been given a new lease on life, thanks to the mixing and production contributions of Sonny DiPerri and his longtime collaborator Adam Gonalves.
For those in the Boise area, get ready for an unforgettable evening of music and emotional resonance. The album will have its release show at the Shrine Basement, featuring an incredible lineup that includes Dirt Russell, Palm Sunday, and Drop of Honey. It promises to be a fitting launch for an album that’s as deeply personal as it is musically compelling.
In a world where music often scratches only the surface, “hidden in plain sight” is a deep dive into the complexities of life and the human spirit. It’s an album that demands your attention and deserves your time. So if you haven’t yet, make sure you give this emotional and musical journey a listen. Trust me, it’s a trip worth taking.
Check out the album at the following links, or pre-order here: https://chiefbroomband.bandcamp.com/album/hidden-in-plain-sight
