REVIEW: Chameleons - Arctic Moon

Often lauded as one of the most underrated bands of their time - and for some, of all time - influential Mancunian post-punk band CHAMELEONS return with full-length album Arctic Moon after 21 years away from the scene. Pairing a newfound maturity with their signature knack for writing dreamy melodies, the four-piece are back to prove that they still have it.

If you like any vaguely alternative or indie band from the eighties or nineties, there’s a 50/50 chance that they have declared CHAMELEONS as an influence on their sound at some point. THE SMASHING PUMPKINS, OASIS, THE VERVE and INTERPOL have all sang their praises over the years, gushing over their seminal albums Script of the Bridge (1983) and Strange Times (1986) - but a lot has changed since then. Through several break-ups, line-up changes and solo albums, Arctic Moon was forged by lead vocalist and bassist MARK BURGESS (now stylised as ‘VOX’) at the helm, along with fellow founding member REG SMITHIES on guitar. They are joined by a second guitarist STEPHEN RICE, keyboardist DANNY ASHBERRY, and TODD DEMMA on drums.

It’s safe to say that they have a lot to prove, and they set about proving it over the seven glam-tinged, melodic tracks. Largely ditching the post-punk edge that tinged a lot of their earlier work, what unfurls instead is a bright and airy collection of songs. Whilst there is a lot of maturity here, the sound is still unmistakably CHAMELEONS'. VOX’s songwriting is unmistakeable, evidenced beautifully on Feels Like The End Of The World. The melancholy lyrics feel at odds with the joyous string arrangements and grand guitar lines, culminating in a darker, more pared-back interlude, before the track blooms once again. It’s a glorious moment on the album.

There is a clear standout on the album, though not necessarily for the right reasons. Coming in at almost nine minutes, David Bowie Takes My Hand wears the band’s influences squarely on its sleeves – and in the album title. It starts moody and mysterious, the twang of a distorted guitar echoing out over the verses. At times, it feels a little bit close to BOWIE for comfort, though it’s hard to deny that the execution is masterful. It feels triumphant and dark, like a sky full of stars, but by the midway point it’s hard not to wish for clearer skies. It stagnates for just a little bit too long, which is just enough to shatter the magic they managed to cultivate.

The album closer is well placed, and is easily the most political song on the record. Saviours Are A Dangerous Thing tackles religion and idolatry, over dazzling guitar lines and the best vocal delivery on all seven tracks, both in tone and the diversity of the melodies throughout. It’s an excellent end to the album, highlighting everything that works well throughout it.

Whilst not all ideas bat it out of the park, it would be difficult to find a life-long fan of CHAMELEONS that wouldn't find something to enjoy here. The band are back in full form, and bringing a fresh new approach to their signature sound.

Score: 7/10

Arctic Moon was released on September 12th 2025.

Words: Ellen Lovell

Photos: Chameleons