chaos in the cbd: a deeper life
Francisco Espregueira
For over a decade, the sibling production duo Chaos In The CBD, comprised of Louis and Ben Helliker-Hales, have captivated audiences with their spectral, jazz-infused deep house soundscapes. Now, these New Zealand-born, London-based, worldwide touring artists unveil their highly anticipated debut album, A Deeper Life, that just dropepd via their own In Dust We Trust imprint. This 14-track LP marks a significant evolution for the duo, known for their signature sound first truly captured on their breakout Midnight In Peckham EP (Rhythm Section, 2015). Ten years have gone and A Deeper Life sees them boldly integrate live instrumentation and vocal collaborations for the first time, weaving together their key musical touchstones – Ambient, Soulful house, R&B, Jazz, and Balearic – into an epic and immersive journey destined to become a future classic.
In this webmagazine, we try as much as we can, shine light on lesser known acts, the exception being made for contemporary and seminal works of art such as this one. The album's overall vibe: moody, ethereal, and inherently soothing, evoking the laid-back rhythm of life in their homeland. Indeed, though London has been their base for over a decade, Louis and Ben have maintained a deep connection to their nature-filled upbringing in New Zealand. A Deeper Life serves as a nostalgic exploration of their youth, from the magical coastlines to the lush rainforests, a sentiment reflected in the album's title itself. This connection to their roots informs an international dance sound that seamlessly transitions from beach party grooves to the heart of the club and into the afterhours.
Ultimately, A Deeper Life is more than just an album for Chaos In The CBD; it's a heartfelt celebration of their roots, their musical community, and their enduring bond as brothers. As Louis eloquently puts it, "This is a love letter to home and the feeling of being within nature... It’s also an ode to a slower pace of life." While they've cultivated a playful online persona, their debut album reveals their deeper artistic intent, serving as the perfect follow up to their iconic discography, and showcasing a global tapestry of sounds meticulously woven together. A Deeper Life promises to be both a club-ready triumph and a reflective escape for listeners worldwide, a testament to Chaos In The CBD's growth and their profound connection to the music they create and the place that shaped them. Available on vinyl and playing on repeat over here.