Unbelievable. Absolutely mind-blowing. How is it even possible that Chapterhouse has finally released full albums of rarities and unreleased tracks from the ’90s on streaming platforms? We’re talking about Demos 1994-1995 first, but also Whirlpool in its full, expanded glory—now resembling a magnificent double album, and many others.
For years, vinyl collectors could only piece together the Chapterhouse legacy bit by bit—through scattered singles, the Whirlpool LP, and the unofficial Rownderbowt compilation, which curated just a fraction of these now-available gems. But today, we finally get the full picture.
For those unfamiliar, Chapterhouse is one of shoegaze’s sacred pioneers, standing shoulder to shoulder with Slowdive, Ride, My Bloody Valentine, and Lush. The difference? They never received the same recognition—perhaps because they had more unreleased material than official releases. Maybe that’s the reason why. Chapterhouse wasn’t just another shoegaze band; they were architects of a dream-state sound, crafting songs designed to get you high without drugs. Their music was influenced by psychedelia, yet still carried echoes of the Beatles—wasn’t Die Die Die their own Helter Skelter? They blended these elements into something truly unique, like a rare, aged whiskey—rich, complex, and unforgettable.
I saw most of the great shoegaze (and non-shoegaze) bands live in the ’90s, but I missed Chapterhouse. And I missed their 2010 reunion tour too. My God. If only they would reunite once more to play these “old but newly released” songs.
If I were in an alternative rock band today, I’d kill to have written even 20% of Chapterhouse’s hits. Pearl, Breather—these are masterpieces. And to realize that so many of their best songs never saw the light of day until now? It’s heartbreaking.
It’s time they get the cult status they deserve. In fact, let’s make it a mainstream cult.
Back in the day, when Mesmerise dropped as a standalone single between albums, we were starving for more. We just didn’t know there wasn’t much more coming (Blood Music being a letdown). But now? We know the truth. There was so much more—before Mesmerise, before it all faded into obscurity.
And now, finally, we get to hear it.
