Progressive band, CHON, recently released a record through Sumerian Records by the name of "Grow". I had never previously heard CHON's tunes but I'm glad that I've been turned on to them as they are a great backing track to any activity. I wasn't sure what to expect in this record but I made the assumption it would be yet another hard hitting metal band that would fit in with the rest of the line up at Sumerian like Upon A Burning Body, Body Count, or Veil Of Maya but I was pleasantly surprised to hear a new, softer sound that is all their own.

As soon as I put this record on for the first time, I had a strong urge to run through a bright field of flowers. Believe me when I say this, that's the effect this record has on you. The first song on the album "Drift" has an almost sultry vibe to it. It really makes sense they could make such a "sunny" feeling record being that they're from San Diego. The track "Book" has a similar warming instrumental style.

One complaint I do have about this release is that every track sort of fades into one another until the first track with vocals, "Can't Wait". It almost feels like a smooth jazz playlist in that every track is embarrassingly similar. If I could recommend one thing to them, it would be to switch things up a little bit between tracks.

Personally, I'd recommend this record for a picnic in the park, a nice summer bike ride, or spending an afternoon in a hammock because that's the vibe it oozes. However, if you find vocals to be your favorite part of music look elsewhere as they are scare on this LP.

I'll give this album a 6/10 because while it may make you feel great, there's really not much there.