Lanarkshire’s Auld White Label have never been a band to follow convention, and their latest single, Chapter 1, proves just that. As the lead track from their upcoming EP, Tangents, the song sets the tone for a project that promises to be as thought-provoking as it is sonically rich. With a sound rooted in industrial textures and experimental composition, Chapter 1 is a mesmerizing introduction to an EP that explores themes of death, rebirth, and transformation.
From the first few seconds, Chapter 1 pulls listeners into a hypnotic soundscape—one that feels both immersive and elusive. The band’s avant-garde approach is immediately evident in the track’s layered production, where chopped-up vocals echo over a bed of swirling synths and a pounding snare drum. The industrial undercurrent is undeniable, yet there’s an undeniable fluidity to the track, making it difficult to pin down to just one genre.
Auld White Label’s strength has always been their ability to seamlessly merge influences, and Chapter 1 is no exception. The song flirts with elements of shoegaze, electronica, synthwave, and IDM, resulting in a sound that is both haunting and infectious. The pulsating beat and shuffling groove make it rhythmically engaging, while the distorted, fragmented vocals lend it an ethereal quality. It’s this balance of structure and experimentation that makes the track stand out.
As the opening track to Tangents, Chapter 1 is more than just a standalone single—it’s the gateway to a larger narrative. The EP, as described by the band, is built around the theme of death and rebirth. While each track on Tangents was written individually by different members of the band, the project as a whole reflects the idea that life is in constant flux, never truly ending but rather shifting into new forms.
This thematic depth is evident in Chapter 1. There’s a cyclical nature to the song’s composition—sounds fade in and out, beats disassemble and reassemble, and melodies shift unpredictably. It mirrors the concept of transformation, as if the song itself is being broken down and rebuilt in real-time.
One of the most fascinating aspects of Chapter 1 is the way it was conceived. Rather than adhering to a single songwriter’s vision, Tangents was built from individual compositions by each band member, which were then woven together as a collective effort. This approach is reflected in the song’s intricate layering—every sound feels like it has been meticulously placed, yet there’s an organic flow that keeps it from feeling overly structured.
This method of composition speaks to Auld White Label’s willingness to push boundaries. While many bands stick to a single sonic identity, they embrace variation, allowing different influences to seep into their music. It’s a testament to their ability to challenge genre constraints while still maintaining a cohesive sound.
For a band that reformed just before the COVID-19 lockdown, Auld White Label have made impressive strides in recent years. Their two concept albums received strong reviews, and their contribution to Northern Strangers—a charity album for Scottish Action for Mental Health—highlights their commitment to using music as a force for good.
With Chapter 1, they continue to evolve, refining their sonic identity while staying true to their experimental roots. The track, along with the rest of Tangents, was recorded, mixed, and mastered by Andy Miller (Mogwai, Songs: Ohia, Life Without Buildings) at Gargleblast Studios in Hamilton. Miller’s touch is evident in the track’s crisp production—every sound is meticulously sculpted, yet there’s a rawness that keeps it from feeling overly polished.
Chapter 1 is an ambitious and immersive start to Tangents. It encapsulates everything that makes Auld White Label an exciting band to watch—genre-defying soundscapes, intricate layering, and a willingness to experiment beyond traditional songwriting. The track doesn’t just introduce the EP; it pulls listeners into a world of shifting textures and evolving ideas.
For those looking for music that challenges expectations while remaining deeply engaging, Chapter 1 is a must-listen. It’s a song that demands repeat plays, revealing new details with each listen. And if this is just the beginning of Tangents, then Auld White Label’s latest offering promises to be something truly special.
Connect with AULD WHITE LABEL on
English