The Chills

Submarine Bells

The Chills’ second album from 1990 is their much-praised major label debut that includes the effervescent, euphoric opener Heavenly Pop Hit. Back on vinyl for the first time in three decades, this much sought-after LP has finally been reissued on Fire Records - a super sweet moment of ear candy, perfect for rediscovery. Submarine Bells had folk-like rounds, brusque punk swagger, psychedelic hues and Phillipps’ off-kilter vocal; all accent, all attitude, soft, then hard. It made for a magnificent half hour plus, too good to transcend to the airwaves, so timeless it still simmers beautifully. A rich tapestry of sound with a nod to early Teardrop Explodes and a host of indie pop legends. There’s the nagging, incessant Familiarity Breeds Contempt midway through, and the glorious baroque pop of the closing title track.