In The City

Chromatics

Had this one going through my head today — a track with a palpable dangerous vibe, complete with melancholy streaks. And it has a perfect mix of electronic and analog instrumentation. Bass, real drums, electric guitar and these incredible synths — even a swirling synth solo.

It’s the title track from an EP I’ve played so many times since 2006 — it just sets a mysterious, cinematic mood. A great song to walk big city streets with if you’ve got good headphones.

And while it would be impossible to choose my top 5 Chromatics songs, this track is a no doubter.

I love Ruth’s humming at 2:49 and how it carries us out. With music this strong, you really don’t need another verse — even with two more minutes on the clock.

Shining violence
Shining victim
In the headlights
Shining pistol
Shimmer diamonds from a necklace
Faceless driver, drive away

In the city

In the city
In the street
In the doorway
You can see them
Midnight walkers
Midnight eyes
Midnight footsteps
Midnight prize

In the city

Concrete river
I hear your voice
Concrete river
I see your face
Whisper to me
Ask me
Why?