On Tuesday, Chicano Batman debuted their latest single “Pink Elephant” in an Instagram Live broadcast at the Consequence of Sound’s page. Their fourth studio album, “Invisible People,” is set to release on May 1st with “Pink Elephant” projected to be the hit of their new record.
Introduced as the second single off the new record, “Pink Elephant” demonstrates the electronic depths of Chicano Batman’s musicianship. Bassist Eduardo Arenas maintains a fuzzy funk beat which is complimented by Carlos Arevalo’s tasteful guitar riff for a soulful track. Vocalist Bardo Martinez sings about God knows what, but his monotonous rhymes over the syncopated drum beat by Gabriel Villa are combined neatly for a colorful composition. The song has been received with mostly positive feedback from their eclectic fanbase who are drawing comparisons to Red Hot Chili Peppers’ funk beat songs. Regardless, Chicano Batman refuses to be encapsulated by a particular genre. With “Pink Elephant,” the latino quartet produces a groove that is formulaic in nature, yet fresh in its delivery. It’s an interesting direction for the experimental band who are proving to be just that. New sound composition will surely anger some loyal fans, however, it’s important to recognize when a band is attempting to go beyond the limits of their usual genre. Taking musical risks prove that the band is gearing towards expanding their fanbase and looks to produce some content that will further demonstrate their musicianship. Although Chicano Batman broke into the scene providing soulful psychedelic music, the latest releases foreshadow they are transcending into popular music.
The band has had a busy winter playing festivals in California and Texas, as well as playing back to back shows just before New Year’s Day with Portugal The Man. Recently, their album release tour was postponed due to the coronavirus outbreak. Chicano Batman released this statement via Twitter: “The good news is that we’re in the process of rescheduling these shows and will announce new dates ASAP.”
The Latino quartet’s momentum has taken a blow with the quarantine lifestyle, however, that hasn’t kept them from finding alternative ways to connect with their fans. Carlos Arevalo recently hosted an Instagram Live workshop where he taught viewers how to play fan favorite, “Cycles of Existential Rhyme.” Moreover, bassist Eduardo Arenas took over Rolling Stones’ instagram page to walk fans through his current pedalboard setup.
Although the duration of the epidemic is uncertain, the anticipation of the rescheduled dates is cause for excitement and hope during these troubling times.
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