Similar to a foot pressing down on a gas pedal, Chase Petra’s "Centrifugal Force" embodies the moment when the urge to comprehend one's self-worth accelerates to its peak, leaving behind marks like tire tracks.
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Stream: “Centrifugal Force” – Chase Petra
The emerging pop band Chase Petra’s latest album, *Lullabies for Dogs*, marks an ongoing evolution of their identity. Based in Long Beach, this trio navigates the space between mainstream pop and an indie sound, fluctuating between Hunter Allen's vocals and a loosely structured 4/4 rhythm throughout their tracks. Even within this steady beat, the wide spacing between instruments allows for the clear bending of guitar notes, the reverberation of the bass, and the intricate layers of Allen's voice harmoniously intertwined. At times, hints of math rock emerge, yet Allen's vocals, which are powerful, translucent, and commanding, maintain a strong pop presence.
The song “Centrifugal Force,” released on March 7th from *Lullabies for Dogs*, presents an energetic exploration of discovering personal truth. It features sparse guitar riffs with major chords in higher registers that enhance the warmth generated by Allen’s voice. The drums are lively and upbeat, contributing to a high-energy track. The trio crafts songs that inspire and encourage movement among listeners.
We’re spinning,
but I can’t sense the gravity.
What constitutes winning if I can’t
see the ground beneath my feet? (pause)
Untethered disbelief (stay put)
They proposed,
perhaps this is fate,
But purgatory aligns with my
common sense; could I (pause)
be all-knowing just this once? (stay put)
The apprehension of uncertainty regarding what lies beyond this “Centrifugal Force” is unsettling, accompanied by biblical references to providence, purgatory, and omniscience. Within this context of speed, isolation looms, and there’s a strong yearning for clarity.
In the chorus, the drums decelerate, emphasizing the tom-toms. The guitars are mutedly strummed, reflecting the uncertainty conveyed in the lyrics. Allen’s voice brings a calming presence.
I only pay attention to songs
that aim to dismantle me,
Tug at my hair and belittle me.
The sky may not be collapsing today,
But my roof has begun to cave in,
the foundation is crumbling.
In the chorus, it’s difficult to discern whether Allen is entirely earnest or if this stems from a sense of detachment. Perhaps the foundation is indeed failing, and the roof is caving, yet she avoids revealing what lies beyond, maintaining the song's tension like a bubble poised to burst. The song introduces a refrain in the second chorus with lengthened lyrics.
Spin out and surrender,
spin out and surrender.
Centrifugal force isn’t functioning
and won’t heed my call.
Forgot to inquire,
I neglected to question
the laws of physics,
and now they’re going to get the best of me.
In, in.
There’s an acknowledgment of this uncontrollable feeling of losing control. Allen reflects on neglecting to question the perceived laws of physics. Are these laws genuinely real? Is everything that’s claimed as truth actually valid? This represents one of the song's most poignant elements. There’s a faint glimmer of hope at the tunnel's end, suggesting a possibility for self-identity, pulled away from societal expectations and toward something thrilling—a personal vision of life not solely dictated by others.
Consider that I grew up on a fairytale,
one I endlessly repeated to myself.
Could I have misinterpreted it this entire time?
A world sustained by scarcely any truths—
What occurs when those truths vanish?
When I’m unaware of the rules?
“Centrifugal Force” beautifully encapsulates the perplexing urge to break free from the projections placed upon others’ lives and souls. Chase Petra’s opening track of their second album is a vibrant burst of energy, symbolizing an identity on the verge of breaking through, attempting to reject negativity. This song is infused with hope, futurity, and a sense of eager anticipation awaiting on the other side.
Uncertainties have his knee between my thighs,
I gaze at the stars and sigh.
Melancholy has sunk its teeth into my neck,
I think I've forgotten to breathe.
:: stream/purchase *Lullabies for Dogs* here ::
:: connect with Chase Petra here ::
Stream: “Centrifugal Force” – Chase Petra
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Similar to a foot pressing down on a gas pedal, Chase Petra’s “Centrifugal Force” represents the moment when the quest for self-worth accelerates to its peak, leaving marks in its wake.