In the ever-evolving tapestry of music, Nastee Chapel emerges as a beacon of originality and soulful introspection. Their latest album, “Lost & Found,” invites listeners on a captivating journey, bridging ancient history with contemporary self-discovery. Led by the dynamic duo of NatalieGrace and Steve, Nastee Chapel fuses folk-inspired storytelling with intricate melodies, creating a unique soundscape that unravels the depths of human existence.
The story of Nastee Chapel began in 2015 when NatalieGrace and Steve crossed paths while pursuing music studies at different universities in London. Despite different academic paths, their shared passion for rock and metal music forged a deep connection. Yet, it was their relocation to a 16th-century cottage near an ancient forest in 2018 that redefined their musical direction.
The picturesque setting breathed new life into their music, trading electric guitars and bass for acoustic guitar and flute. Steve, renowned for his rock guitar prowess, found inspiration in bluegrass luminaries like Doc Watson. In parallel, NatalieGrace explored folk music and storytelling, drawing inspiration from progressive rock bands such as Jethro Tull.
In 2019, Nastee Chapel was born, and although they had grand plans for 2020, the year did not unfold as expected. They persevered through a period of hibernation and livestreaming, eventually taking to the streets as buskers to share their music.
The music journey of NatalieGrace and Steve is characterized by a relentless pursuit of virtuosity and academic excellence. NatalieGrace’s classical music background, choral singing, and operatic vocal skills, coupled with her admiration for artists like Arvo Pärt and John Tavener, beautifully complemented Steve’s electric guitar expertise, influenced by virtuosos like Steve Vai. Both share a passion for transposing and arranging music and sound engineering.
Their common affinity for bands like Tool and System of a Down, known for intricate and potent performances that serve as commentaries on the world, significantly influenced their musical vision. Folk music became their canvas for storytelling and history, blending structural simplicity with progressive arrangements. The essence of legendary figures like Martin Carthy and Maddy Prior, along with inspiration from Jethro Tull, Fairport Convention, and Dream Theatre, contributes to their distinctive sound that transcends categorization.
Nastee Chapel’s artistic roots delve deep into the earth, drawing inspiration from luminaries like Sadhguru, Maya Angelou, and Hildegard of Bingen, as they seek to unveil the painful past of humanity, ultimately rising from it.
Nastee Chapel’s musical odyssey has seen them share stages with notable acts such as The Trials of Cato and Merry Hell. Their performance at The Royal Horticultural Society Chelsea Flower Show in support of arts charity Talitha Arts stands as a remarkable achievement. The band has also enjoyed frequent airplay on BBC Radio Shropshire, thanks to Genevieve Tudor.
Noteworthy endorsements and accolades have followed Nastee Chapel, with music producer Nigel Stonier declaring them “the real deal.” Genevieve Tudor of BBC Radio Shropshire lauded the “delicious” quality of their music. “Send Me Your Ears,” a music review from 2022, praised their “great catchy lyrics, superbly tight musicianship, and a quirkiness that puts them head and shoulders above most of the music coming out of the UK folk scene.”
The creation of “Lost & Found” was a labor of love for Nastee Chapel, guided by self-sufficiency and fearlessness. The journey to record the album commenced when renowned music producer Nigel Stonier encountered the duo during one of their busking sessions in Nantwich. This meeting inspired them to launch a Kickstarter campaign in October 2021, successfully raising funds with unwavering support from their dedicated fans.
NatalieGrace and Steve oversee every facet of the band, extending their creativity to include album artwork and music videos. “Lost & Found” is a testament to self-exploration, self-sufficiency, and the potent sense of community.
“Lost & Found” embarks on a journey of self-exploration, weaving a narrative that transcends the boundaries of time. Throughout history, humans have created labyrinths to navigate their thoughts and emotions. Unlike mazes, labyrinths offer a single path, leading to self-discovery and introspection in a safe and contemplative space.
The album commences with “Old Wind,” evoking our ancient past, a time when humanity was intimately connected with nature. The journey unfolds, delving into profound questions and yearnings that lead to different conclusions. Tracks like “Rivers Run Dry” and “50 Soldiers” illuminate the devastating impact of war and the inextricable link between our freedom to roam the land and our freedom to live.
“In Darkness Waits” serves as a poignant tribute to those who have embarked on the final journey. “Sisters” explores the division between femininity and masculinity, while “Innocent Burning” transports listeners to medieval France at the onset of the Inquisition.
“Codeine” delves into the experience of endometriosis, touching a chord with countless sufferers who have hailed it as “a song for many.” “Surrender” confronts the “110% syndrome,” the unrelenting pursuit of unattainable standards that leaves one feeling perpetually inadequate. “Down by the River” encourages us to emulate the natural world, which thrives on differences to achieve mutual growth. The album culminates with “The Lamb,” completing a cyclical journey that simultaneously signifies new beginnings.
The powerful message embedded within the tracks underscores humanity’s capacity to choose unity over division, to find love and joy even in the face of adversity. There may be moments of confusion and loss, but it is possible to find contentment in the darkness and derive solace from the simple, yet profound, melodies of nature. “Lost & Found” encapsulates the notion that nothing is truly lost; all can be found.
As Nastee Chapel boldly declares, “We two bards do boldly decree to shine a light on history. From the roots of pain, may we all rise, remember the forgotten, let go of the lies. You seek for answers, but once you knew, music and art, the keys to guide you.”
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