New Music: Chimera

           

The Australian band now London-based trio Howling Bells ramp up for the early 2026 release of their Strange Life, Their first album in over ten years shows them staying true to their indie roots, but "Chimera" the band's new single displays a lyrical and musical maturity and singularity that discerning fans of indie music will find alluring. Immediate reference points are The Sundays and Slowdive, though given that Howling Bells are now entering their third decade, it’s fair to highlight how they have influenced recent acts that explore the emotional terrain between indie, dream pop, and shoegaze. Don’t let the wit of the lyrics and escapism of the arrangement distract you; Chimera imparts an important message around acceptance and optimism. "Chimera" is a strange word, says Juanita Stein. "It means a few different and curious things; in this context, however, I’m using it to mean something of an absurd nature, unattainable, a fantasy. Such is the relationship we have with music at times." "This song speaks to my experience as a musician, surviving the perpetual ups and downs of the game. But if you’re lucky enough, you have someone who can cut through the noise and help you realise that the fantasy is half the joy.