Chime School, the solo project of San Francisco musician Andy Pastalaniec, has unveiled its sophomore album, The Boy Who Ran the Paisley Hotel, released on August 23, 2024. Following the acclaim of the 2021 self-titled debut, this new record delves deeper into the jangle-pop genre, offering a richer and more evolved sound.
Recorded in Pastalaniec’s home studio on San Francisco’s foggy southern edge, the album presents a moodier tone, with tracks that unfold patiently, highlighting an evolution in songcraft, production, and arrangement. While maintaining the jangling drive that fans have come to adore, the album takes a turn toward the winsome melancholy reminiscent of bands like East Village, The Go-Betweens, and The Loft.
The opening track, “The End,” sets the stage with its melancholic yet catchy melody, drawing listeners into the album’s introspective atmosphere. Songs like “Give Your Heart Away” and “Another Way Home” showcase Pastalaniec’s ability to blend lyrical depth with melodic hooks, creating a cohesive and intricate body of work. The album’s closer, “Points of Light,” leaves a lasting impression with its reflective lyrics and harmonious instrumentation.
The Boy Who Ran the Paisley Hotel not only pays homage to the deep cuts of UK indie pop but also reflects the contemporary San Francisco scene, embodying both the city’s history and current realities. This album represents a significant leap forward for Chime School, solidifying its place in the indie-pop landscape.
For those seeking a blend of classic jangle-pop with modern sensibilities, The Boy Who Ran the Paisley Hotel is a must-listen, offering a journey through melancholic melodies and thoughtful compositions that resonate with both nostalgia and innovation.