Chela Una, Serotonin Flux

Post Author: Michael Brummett

Background

Chela Una is an artist out of La Puente, California. Her array of influences span heavy metal, techno, freestyle, jazz, soul oldies and cumbias. Back in 2002, she moved to Detroit to work for Mad Mike at Submerge Distribution. There, taking in the massive, influence sounds — she drew even more inspiration on the style she champions today.
While at Submerge, she worked alongside Gerald Mitchell to record with Los Hermanos. Soon after, she would become the voice of LH as they launched their 2004 live band tour.
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Verdict

 
Serotonin Flux was released over the weekend, nearly selling out their run of 47 tape copies on Bandcamp, with only 7 left as of Monday evening. Chela Una’s 6-track run is full of genuine oddities that expand your personal music aesthetic and challenge your taste.

Beginning with “Depression Impression”, you are immediately taken in by the beautifully rhythmic trance that powers through the first part of the song. Suddenly, Una’s vocals break through, eventually leading into an intentionally garbled, electronic spiral with a backdrop of percussion that could only encourage dance in its most primitive form.

“Let It Go” is of a much faster pace, with an almost heartbeat-like percussion that gently introduces the haunting vocal arrangements. In this futuristic journey, the gentle introductions do not last long, leading into a far harsher, grittier environment.

“NPOL” is highly atmospheric, bringing in a far longer form electronica that has a true sense of character in Serotonin Flux. It does feel formational — as if in the process of creating or constructing something.

“Serotonin Flux” is clearly the standout production in the tape release. In an almost raw, tribal intensity, the echoes of Una’s vocals resonate after the fact. If Serotonin Flux is an acquired taste, I’ve acquired it. 4/5.
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