Chelsea in Orbit

I recently had the chance to interview and photograph this up and coming band. Read on!


Just as the Chelsea area of London birthed innovation and art, audacious South Jersey trio, Chelsea in Orbit, soulfully embodies this concept. There is little doubt that Chelsea in Orbit is fluent in the language of British rock, easily translating the sonic syntax of classic '80s bands into an amalgamation all their own. Their music is not, however, to be confused with the outpouring of the ubiquitous neo-'80s bands seen today. Instead, they set out do something extraordinary: make great songs. Seemingly undaunted by the prospect of "making it big," and never ostentatious, all three members let the music do the real talking.


The songs crafted by Chelsea in Orbit are, undoubtedly, crafted with patience. Never taking themselves too seriously - Juan Parejo (vocals), Gregg Biesiada (lead guitar) and Rick Eddy (drums) - all would rather tell the tales of their strange and comical encounters through three years of touring, than to sit and list their myriad accomplishments.

After winning Origivation Magazine's awards for "Band of the Year" and "Best Modern Rock Band," Chelsea in Orbit already had three albums behind them. This remarkable acknowledgment led to the placement of their song, "Perfect Kiss" in the short, indie film "Life Coach." All major feats for which you are unlikely to hear any of the guys mention unless under strict questioning. In fact, when asked why they enjoyed performing at the prestigious Dewey Beach Music conference, Juan answered earnestly: "We got to eat a lot of pancakes."

There is more to Chelsea in Orbit than just great music made by musicians with whom you'd love to hang around; the music is bold, the instrumentation is no-nonsense and the vocals can only be described as chill-inducing. Juan's fierce voice is replete with strong characteristics that are seldom heard anywhere else. Encroaching upon the release of their fourth album, the intricate yet jolting musicianship is clearly showcased. And it doesn't stop there.

When acclaimed producer Jamie Myerson (Amy Cook, Duncan Sheik, Dido, AM), took the band under his veteran wing, the music truly began to take a life of its own as he engendered the album's perfect atmospheric touches.

"Working with others, it never sounded quite right, never sounded quite like us until now," Rick explained. If their current endeavor is any indication as to what Chelsea in Orbit really is, people will certainly be listening.

"The songs are stronger," Juan added. Gregg explained that working with Myerson on their album was "natural, like hanging out."

Natural, for sure. Chelsea in Orbit's sound doesn't overpower, instead, it suggests and pulls you in; allowing the listener to circumnavigate around a taste of their many influences, but always keeping their own style in the aural forefront.

"I just hope there's an audience out there that understands the passion of our work and feels as good about it as we do," Rick said, one of his less zany retorts made. But just when things become too mushy, a cellular phone goes off, blaring Echo and the Bunnymen's "The Killing Moon." Gregg answers, looks around and swoops in with a saving quip:

"There's a niche for what we're doing - it could be six people - but there's a niche."

Check out some of CIO's music on their Myspace
OR
Download a free mp3 of the epic
Truth and the Fire