Chameleons’ album Stranger Times served as inspiration for Britpop, explains Guitar World
The 1980s were a golden era for British guitar music, especially in Manchester, where bands like The Smiths and New Order reigned supreme. While not achieving the same commercial success, The Chameleons left their mark with their album “Strange Times,” released in 1986, which became a source of inspiration for future generations. The album resonated with musicians like Noel Gallagher of Oasis, who confessed to its influence on his early songwriting days. The album, recorded in Jacob’s Studio in Surrey, was created with only a few song ideas but blossomed into a lush, dreamy, and melodic masterpiece.
The Chameleons’ lineup, featuring Mark Burgess on vocals and Reg Smithies and Dave Fielding on guitars, aimed for a live sound during the recording. Reflecting on the studio experience, Smithies fondly recalled memories of shared laughter during backing vocal sessions and the hilarity of a bird invasion in the control room, creating a jovial atmosphere that translated into the album’s unique aura.
With producer David M. Allen’s guidance, the band sculpted a distinctive sonic landscape using equipment like a Gibson SG, a Squier Strat, a Mesa/Boogie amplifier, Boss delay and chorus pedals, and Fielding’s ethereal Roland Space Echo. Smithies highlighted the harmonious collaboration between him and Fielding, leveraging their different strengths to enhance the album’s guitar-driven sound. While acknowledging Fielding’s superior technical prowess, Smithies emphasized his own contribution with intricate riffs that added depth to the music.
“Strange Times” marked a departure from the Chameleons’ earlier post-punk records, “Script of the Bridge” and “What Does Anything Mean? Basically,” showcasing a more refined and experimental approach that resonated with listeners. The album’s captivating melodies and introspective lyrics captivated audiences and earned the band a devoted following that continues to celebrate their music decades later.
Despite never achieving mainstream success, The Chameleons’ influence on subsequent generations of musicians is undeniable. Bands like Oasis found inspiration in the band’s unconventional and emotionally charged sound, which paved the way for the Britpop boom of the ’90s. “Strange Times” remains a timeless testament to the power of music to transcend boundaries and resonate with listeners on a profound level, solidifying The Chameleons’ legacy as pioneers of British guitar music.