B-Side Guys

After the pop-tinged “Sunshine Honey,” Pink Chameleons pivot toward darker territories with “Draggin’ On,” the final single before their sophomore album “Harmony” arrives via Soliti Recordings. Recorded in the atmospheric cellar of an old Helsinki movie house at Altai Studios, the track demonstrates the band’s evolution from punk foundations toward more expansive psychedelic territory.

The production showcases Paltsa-Kai Salama’s sophisticated arrangement approach, layering electric sitar and mellotron against hypnotic tremolo effects. These elements create rich sonic tapestry that rewards repeated listening, with new details emerging from the carefully constructed wall of sound with each play.

The rhythm section of Antti Sauli (bass) and Ville Hopponen (drums) provides solid foundation for the track’s psychedelic exploration. Their repetitive patterns create perfect platform for the more experimental elements above, demonstrating why this three-piece unit has moved beyond their punk-inspired origins into more expansive territory.

The track’s structure builds through careful accumulation of elements rather than sudden shifts, creating hypnotic effect that matches its lyrical exploration of circular patterns and repeated behaviors. Salama’s vocals weave through the dense instrumentation while maintaining clarity of delivery and emotional impact.

Particularly effective is the way the arrangement balances vintage elements like mellotron with modern production techniques. The band’s decision to complete the track at home after initial recording at Altai Studios allows for both spontaneity and careful consideration in the final mix.

As preview of “Harmony,” the track suggests an album that will lean harder into psychedelia than their 2021 debut “Peace and Love.” This evolution feels natural rather than forced, with each element serving the song’s darker atmospheric goals while maintaining the band’s essential character.

The production creates perfect balance between shoegaze texture and psychedelic exploration. Rather than choosing between these approaches, Pink Chameleons demonstrates how they can work together to create something both familiar and fresh.

Through its marriage of vintage instruments and modern sensibilities, “Draggin’ On” succeeds in both honoring psychedelic traditions and pushing them forward. It suggests that Pink Chameleons’ upcoming album will continue their evolution from punk roots toward more expansive sonic territories.