With so many pop-centric bedroom producers delving into electronica, it is refreshing to hear a new project that is composed entirely with ‘conventional’ instruments. Melbourne’s Chips Calipso (David Cameron) has cleverly distorted, effected, and layered vocals, guitar, bass, and drums when producing his tune ‘The Pines 2009’ and it works.
Cameron’s distorted vocals are hauntingly pleasant as simple drum and bass patterns lay a solid foundation. This basic rhythmic backing allows disjointed guitar tracks and sporadic backing vocals to surprise and entertain whenever they are heard.
Chips Calipso’s mantra is, “I don’t mind.” Whether reflecting on serious personal matters or poor surf conditions, he is at ease. This laid back attitude appears authentic in ‘The Pines 2009’ and is well suited to good low-fi surf pop.
