Heard It Here First

In July 2023, Red Rocks was home to one of its resident bands, STS9, and the unveiling of their latest body of work, Chromalight. A favorite amongst fans and artists alike, STS9 has been a powerhouse in the jam scene since 1997. Twelve studio albums and countless singles later, Chromalight is a collection of fourteen new songs recorded live at Red Rocks. Here is what STS9 had to say about their idea behind Chromalight:

“The multi-sensory production set out to explore the connection between sound and light, the colors associated with musical notes and scales, and how to tap into the power of the harmony between them to create an intentional and immersive live spectacle. This is the complete audio recording of the first-ever live performance of STS9’s Chromalight.” – STS9

The Chromalight live album is more than just a collection of tracks; it’s a journey through STS9’s dynamic soundscapes, showcasing their ability to transform each live performance into a new adventure. Each track on the album captures the essence of the band’s concerts, where fans are treated to extended jams, spontaneous improvisations, and seamless transitions between songs.

Chromalight launches off with “Reveal Intro.” The beautifully cadenced melody begins with an ebb and flow of the keys provided by David Phipps. Zach Velmer soon chimes in with a proper influx of snares and heady drums, giving this song a dynamic DnB feel.

“Reveal Intro” takes a mild turn into “Darkest Before Dawn.” This piece is an effervescent rhapsody that delivers a serene presence upon listening.

Some personal favorites include the heavy jams, “Haze,” “Dreamstate Patrol,” “Refraction,” and Chromalight’s first single, “Searchlight.” Chromalight brings listeners back down to Earth as it comes to a close with “Skyspace” into “Human Dream.” This album is a beautiful composition, allowing listeners to be transported back to the immersive experience at Red Rocks amongst friends and family.

The album represents a culmination of years of experimentation, touring, and fine-tuning their sound. The fourteen-track project is not just a live recording; it’s a celebration of STS9’s live legacy. Each track captures the raw energy and spontaneity of their performances, making it a must-listen for fans who want to relive the magic of an STS9 concert.

STS9’s Chromalight live album is a powerful representation of what makes the band’s live shows so special. The album successfully encapsulates the essence of their live performances; dynamic, unpredictable, and deeply immersive. With fourteen tracks that showcase the band’s ability to create and sustain a unique musical journey in each performance, Chromalight is a testament to STS9’s status as one of the most innovative and compelling live acts in the music world today. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to their sound, this album offers a thrilling glimpse into the live experience that has made STS9 a staple of the jam and electronic music scenes.

Currently, STS9 is touring the country, with upcoming performances in September at Red Rocks. Every performance is a unique and unforgettable experience that I cannot stress enough, you don’t want to miss. Follow this link to purchase tickets to any of their upcoming tour dates!

Where can we expect to see you on STS9’s tour? Let us know in the comments below or on our socials!

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