The Chains: The Gritty Force of Modern Garage Rock

The Chains are a British garage rock revival band known for their raw, high-energy sound and explosive live performances. Hailing from Manchester, the band achieved a significant commercial milestone when their second album, 'Gravity's Pull', debuted at number 5 on the UK Albums Chart and was certified gold within six months of its release.

Early career

The Chains formed in 2014, born from the vibrant DIY music scene in Manchester's Northern Quarter. The founding members, vocalist/guitarist Leo Vance and drummer Samir Khan, began writing songs in a shared basement flat, eventually solidifying the lineup with bassist Maya Cole.

Their self-released, lo-fi EP 'Rust & Concrete' in 2016 caught the attention of several independent blogs and led to a signing with the respected indie label Fuzzcutter Records. This early period was defined by relentless touring across the UK's pub and club circuit, building a dedicated grassroots following.

Breakthrough

The band's breakthrough arrived in 2019 with the release of their debut album, 'Static Echoes'. The lead single, 'Blackout Frequency', became an unexpected hit on alternative radio, propelling the album to number 32 on the UK chart.

This success attracted major label interest, and The Chains subsequently signed a partnership deal with Atlantic Records UK for their subsequent releases. The increased budget and distribution allowed their music to reach a much wider international audience almost overnight.

Key tracks

Blackout Frequency — This driving, fuzzed-out single served as the band's first major radio hit and introduced their signature sound to a national audience.

Gravity's Pull — The title track from their second album showcased a more refined, anthemic approach while maintaining their core intensity, helping secure their first top 5 album.

Neon Guillotine — A fan-favorite live staple known for its breakneck tempo and searing guitar solo, it exemplifies the band's raw, unpolished power.

Signal Fade — This 2022 collaboration with producer Paul Epworth highlighted a more textured, studio-conscious side of the band, expanding their sonic palette.

Capitalizing on their momentum, The Chains released their critically and commercially successful follow-up, 'Gravity's Pull', in 2021. The album's tighter songwriting and powerful production, led by mixer Alan Moulder, solidified their position as leaders of the new rock wave. They have since collaborated with artists like the punk icon Iggy Pop on the track 'Burning Wires' and performed at major festivals including Glastonbury and Reading & Leeds.

Fans of The Chains' gritty, riff-driven British rock should also explore Royal Blood for their massive bass-and-drums sound. The melodic garage rock of The Libertines is a clear foundational influence on the band's attitude. Listen to Yard Act for a similar blend of post-punk energy and sharp social commentary. The raw power of IDLES also resonates with the visceral intensity found in The Chains' music.

The music of The Chains maintains a strong presence on radio, particularly across modern rock and alternative rock radio stations. Their hits are staples on playlists dedicated to guitar-driven music, and deeper album cuts frequently appear on independent music radio stations championing new rock talent.

Listeners can discover the powerful garage rock of The Chains by tuning into the dedicated rock and alternative stations featured right here on onairium.com, where their catalog is regularly in rotation.