Chloe x Halle: Ungodly Hour | 4ZZZ Brisbane 102.1FM

- While never avoiding the party sounds of the 2000s, R&B in the 2010s was consistently focused on either depressive attitudes or political statements. As the sound shifts away from statements, it makes sense that the return to more joyous, infectious R&B is being led by a sister duo, spearheaded by Beyoncé. Speaking of which, Chloe x Halle may be young, but their latest project Ungodly Hour pushes their song-writing abilities well above the releases of their idols at the same age.

Chloe x Halle have a certain attitude, one which is unapologetic and ferocious. Forgive Me opens their record strongly with the sisters declaring they won’t say sorry for being themselves even in the face of losing a partner. Despite not being twins, the two act as if born joined at the hip, flowing off each other impeccably. It would be one thing if they took turns singing but their combined vocal inflections adds extra layers of audible enjoyment as well as strength in craftsmanship.

When Chloe x Halle declare their intent on Baby Girl -to own the world for women- every part of me believes them. There is a certain level of swagger that makes a great R&B song and this track bleeds it with a laidback drum-heavy beat, solo produced by Chloe. The verses are brief and precise and highlight the angelic qualities of the sister’s voices.

Tipsy should be an easy pop song about a new relationship but Chloe x Halle’s imagery pushes the track to new heights. “I’ve been crucified, darling; Ghosts haunt me like New Orleans” in a lesser writer’s hands would simply translate to 'I’ve been hurt'. The tag team singing endeavour amplifies the strength of the pair when declaring that they better be treated right, or else; as if to emphasise that if you mess with one sister, you should watch out for the other.

The album's title track is a smooth, low-key anthem that could easily lift the club up at 3am. The song is an interesting ode to a man, one who the duo feel needs to work on his self-deprecation, before they can date. Produced by English duo Disclosure, the production is an electronically slanted, moody piece and a nice change of pace from the rest of the trap influences.

Catch Up is a weaker moment on the record with an uninspired Swae Lee feature that feels like a safe bet for the charts. The production is run-of-the mill, especially for producer Mike Will Made It, sounding like a slightly more upbeat Post Malone track. Chloe x Hallie are almost features on their own song as they take a back-seat to more recognisable names.

The Beyonce influence comes out on closing track ROYL with pianos and drums that would easily fit the latter half of Lemonade. While the flows and vocals are very Queen Bey, the duo make the message of living in the now their own and end the record with its grandest, most awe-inspiring moments fit for nothing short of a stadium chant.

Ungodly Hour is the expression of a young duo with a lot of talent to offer as well as the budget and guidance to execute a cohesive, summer R&B record. While not every song strikes hot, Chloe x Halle prove themselves to be not only on the way to world-wide tours but deserving of it too.

- James Chadwick.
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