The Chills
Where The Chills are concerned, there’s no simple summary of who, what and why. Perhaps only ‘when’, and even then the last 30 years seem to blur. This is testament to the physical persistence of Chills founder and centrifugal force Martin Phillipps, but also his kaleidoscopic, obsessive and idiosyncratic nature. For no other Flying Nun associate had such gumption to reach out overseas, nor was beset by both simple and turbulent twists of fate. Which meant no one could keep up with Phillipps’ wayward path - hence The Chills’ now infamously documented personnel changes (there are over 20 line-ups to peruse if you choose).
At least the music remains, and here there is much more certainty. The Chills were exemplars of the so-called Dunedin Sound – an often moist and melancholy, simultaneously dark and breezy amalgam of Western garage-pop roots but invested with an otherworldly aura, as if those overseas influences had indeed seeped in upside down. But only Phillipps was this quixotic, bridging folk and bubblegum, Bowie and Syd Barrett, with feverish shivers and childlike whimsy. (No one else would have dared wear pixie boots with no irony, only joy.). If music has a psycho-geographical bent, then it’s the air, waves and light of the Otago peninsular, and the spaciousness and remoteness of NZ itself, that glows and thrums through his songs.
The Chills
The Chills first formed in 1980, led by frontman Martin Phillipps. The group soon became known for their dark, breezy but melancholic sound, blended with Western garage-pop roots – but inspired by New Zealand punk music.
Here at Flying Nun, we first discovered The Chills back at the beginning, and they’ve been through many personnel changes since (much documented and commented on, with over 20 different line-ups over the years). Phillipps continues to remain at the helm – releasing their seventh studio album Scatterbrain in 2021. The album is a mature, retrospective look back at Phillipps’ songwriting. It’s a thought-provoking listen from one of the godfathers of Dunedin Sound. Take a look through the extensive back-catalog of The Chills band here at Flying Nun today.
The Chills NZ
The Chills are renowned for their otherworldly sound, and there’s no better way to listen to The Chills songs than on vinyl. The group is best known for their hits Pink Frost, I Love My Leather Jacket and Wet Blanket – releasing a string of well-known hits and well-acclaimed albums (which we also have available on CD).
Their songs mix childlike whimsy with folk music and bubblegum pop, while also exploring darker themes with a feverish chill. Martin Phillipps has been recognised to be quite a character – no-one else could wear pixie boots with such joy. Each song conjures the ruggedness of the Otago Peninsula, from which the band has originated, with its sense of light and dark.
You can also show your love for the band and buy The Chills band merch from Flying Nun, featuring their iconic logo and album art – with the Submarine Bells t-shirt, beanies, tote bag or tea towel (which you can also use as a canvas poster).
Get The Chills on vinyl
Flying Nun is proud to stock the music of The Chills NZ here at our online music store – with a selection of reissues and iconic albums available on CD and vinyl. We’re passionate about making this available to fans old and new – introducing a new generation of musos to the Dunedin Sound. With free shipping in New Zealand on orders over $40, it’s never been easier to add to your collection.
Since 1981, we’ve proudly supported New Zealand’s underground and alternative music scene. With our record label, we provide a platform for all the latest emerging indie bands and artists – ones we hope you take into your homes.
Looking for tips and recommendations? Our expert staff are all seasoned music-goers and regulars on the scene, and they’re happy to point you in the direction of the next big thing! Simply get in touch with us at enquiries@flyingnun.co.nz today. You can also stop in at our own Wellington record store at 173 Cuba St, Te Aro (open Tue-Sun, 10am-5.30pm).
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