CHRONICLE
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CRIOMHCHOLL / CHRONICLE Eachdraidh | |
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| Background information | |
| Origin | Oirthidún, Faneria |
| Genres | |
| Years active | 2003-present |
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| Members |
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CRIOMHCHOLL (Fhasen: Eachdraidh), better known as CHRONICLE, is a Fhainnin electronic music group composed of Rian Banwel, Connor Bergin, and Ronan Healy. Chronicle has been instrumental in defining and pushing the boundaries of Bacain house music since their formation in 2003. Chronicle is known for incorporating a strong rock influence into their music and image, and over time their sound has evolved to include a wide range of sonic influences.
Chronicle's rise to prominence was closely linked with the wave of Bacain house music that swept through the music scene in the 2000s, carving a significant niche within the genre. With their distinctive fusion of electronic beats and rock-infused undertones, Chronicle quickly emerged as a leading force in this musical movement, shaping its direction and growth. Chronicle's debut album, Solás na Gealaí (Moonlight), was released in 2005 and was met with massive commercial success , selling over 1.3 million copies and being nominated for 5 Opus Music Awards and winning 3. Since their meteoric rise, the group has maintained a steady but prolific output - alternating between short experimental EP releases and massive studio albums. After the release of their third studio album Solás na Réaltaí in 2014, Chronicle embarked on their first global tour. Originally, the tour consisted of 42 shows but due to unprecedented demand, the group went on the world's first so-called "Global Eternity Tour" where they toured nonstop for approximately 20 months.
The influence of Chronicle on contemporary music, particularly within the electronic genre, continues to be felt and acknowledged, solidifying their status as one of the industry's enduring and influential acts. Chronicle has been called "the face of mainstream house music" by several publications, and in 2023 the group was inducted into the International Music Hall of Fame. Chronicle has won 13 Opus Music Awards - more than any other electronic dance music artist.
History
Musical style and image
Overall, Chronicle's music can be characterized as a vibrant amalgamation of electronic music and rock, combining the anthemic melodies and danceable rhythms of house music with the raw energy and aggression of rock, presented with high production - both on stage and in their music.
Chronicle's music style is an eclectic blend of various electronic genres, heavily influenced by the grittier tones of rock music, presenting a distinctive fusion that has become their signature sound. They primarily operate within the realm of Bacain house music, a subgenre that originated in Fhainn in the late 1990s. However, their approach to this genre is far from conventional, incorporating elements from a multitude of musical styles, resulting in a rich, layered sonic landscape that has continued to evolve. From their formation, Chronicle's music was marked by a heavy emphasis on synthesizers and a strong sense of melody, hallmarks of the traditional electronic music that was taking off in Levantia at the time. Their early works showed a predilection for distorted, aggressive basslines and sweeping synth pads, complemented by the catchy, anthemic chord progressions and emotive melodies that became a signature feature of their sound.
A notable aspect of their music is the meticulous attention to detail in their production. Their tracks often feature intricate arrangements, with multiple layers of synth lines, bass, percussion, and vocals interweaving seamlessly to create a full, textured sound. The group was heavily influenced by Astra Pulse, a groundbreaking Caphiric electronic music artist known for their futuristic sound design and innovative use of synthesizers in the late '90s. Their creativity in manipulating electronic elements helped pave the way for Chronicle's own experimental tendencies in electronic music production.
Another defining characteristic of Chronicle's music is their use of rock aesthetics, not just in their music but also their image. Guitars and live drums often feature prominently in their tracks, lending a raw, organic edge to their otherwise electronically dominated sound. Their music videos and live performances often depict them performing with traditional rock band instruments, further reinforcing this image.
As they progressed in their career, Chronicle began to incorporate elements of funk and disco. Their later works showcase more refined production techniques, featuring slicker, smoother synth sounds, groovy basslines, and catchy hooks, which garnered a more mainstream audience. Yet, throughout the group's musical evolution, it has managed to retain its signature rock-infused, electrifying edge.
Discography
Studio albums
- Solás na Gealaí (Moonlight) (2005)
- Solás na Spéartha (Skylight) (2009)
- Solás na Réaltaí (Starlight) (2014)
- Comhshaoil (Eclipse) (2019)
- Ar an Rhydwel (On The Rhydwel) (2023)
- Thar an Rhydwel (Over The Rhydwel) (2026)
- Ríthe an Rhydwel (Kings Of The Rhydwel) (2029)
EPs
- Croithe na Cathrach (Heart of the City) (2003)
- Creathlach Mór (A Big Web) (2004)
- Aislingí Dúnnan (Dúnnan Dreams) (2007)
- Tráthnónaí Gorma (Blue Evenings) (2008)
- Caillte i Neamhparthas (Lost in Paradise) (2011)
- Ag Siúl Tríd Neamhparthas (Wandering Through Paradise) (2012)
- Éalú Ó Neamhparthas (Escape From Paradise) (2013)
- Aréir (Yesterday) (2021)
- Fíorú na hÍomhá (Image Verification) (2022)
- Scéalta Fada (Long Stories) (2031)