Chercán is a Chilean band formed in 2019, distinguished by their eclectic and innovative approach to Progressive Rock, heavily infused with Fusion influences. Their self-titled debut album, released on March 4, 2025, marks a significant step forward in the contemporary music scene, offering a complex and layered sonic journey through nine tracks of medium-long duration. The band also enlisted several guest musicians, further enriching the compositions with their performances. The album opens with “La Culpa,” an energetic track that immediately highlights the band’s ability to craft dynamic rhythmic textures constantly evolving. The rhythm section stands out for its vitality, characterized by frequent time signature changes that keep the listener on edge. Guitar and saxophone lines intertwine skillfully within the melodies, creating a pleasing contrast between softer passages and more intense, Heavy moments. The vocals are incisive and vibrant, fitting perfectly into this soundscape, resulting in a fresh and engaging blend of progressive rock and fusion. Moving forward, we encounter “Caen Las Hojas Blancas,” a piece exploring modern and technically refined sounds. Here, the band demonstrates great mastery of their instruments, with intricate arrangements featuring prominent saxophone sections. Emotional tension is palpable in the intense and passionate vocal parts, while complex instrumental textures with saxophone at the forefront develop a rich sound full of tempo changes. The ability to alternate between meditative moments and frenetic sections makes this track one of the album’s highlights. “Kalimba” introduces a more Jazzy atmosphere, enriched by string arrangements that lend it a delicate charm. The warm and expressive singing blends seamlessly with melodic instrument lines, creating an elaborate yet captivating sound. A brief saxophone solo in the middle adds depth to the composition, while string interludes evoke a melancholic mood that prepares listeners for what follows. With “Desolacion (En),” Chercán offers an intimate and reflective moment: delicate arpeggios introduce melancholic atmospheres accompanied by an enveloping voice. This track serves as an emotional bridge between the more energetic pieces on the album, allowing for introspection before diving into the next song. “Tiempos Paralelos” represents one of the most interesting moments on the album: an intro with arpeggios characterizes a piece blending Folkloric elements with progressive sounds. Percussive drumming accompanies an increasingly crescendoing composition where the band develops a complex and elaborate theme showcasing their technical versatility. The fusion of tradition and innovation is clearly evident here, making it one of the album’s standout tracks. The rhythm intensifies further with “Las Mentiras Del Muro,” opening with powerful percussion lines supported by saxophone reminiscent of King Crimson’s period with Tony Levin. The incisive vocals alternate with fiery instrumental sections that highlight both compositional skill and execution energy. This track emphasizes Chercán’s ability to combine refined technique with raw energy. One of the most intriguing parts of the album is a mini-suite composed of two interconnected tracks: “Relato De Una Obsesión – Part I: Quimera” and “Relato De Una Obsesión – Part II: El Orate.” The first part opens with percussion inspired by Eastern atmospheres; saxophone and guitar solos enrich its evocative soundscape. After a more contemplative initial phase, the second section introduces more prog-fusion elements: solid rhythms, guitar riffs intertwined with saxophone lines, and intense vocals create an emotionally compelling climax. Instrumental interludes alternate between vocal parts and saxophone solos that amplify this evocative experience. The album concludes with “7 Colores,” characterized by a more symphonic and atmospheric sound. The beautiful female vocals add depth to arrangements supported by well-calibrated percussive drumming. This gentle ending provides a pleasant farewell to listeners after this sonic journey crafted by Chercán. In summary, this debut represents a fresh and original proposal within today’s progressive rock landscape. Chercán demonstrates great compositional maturity through intricate yet never chaotic textures rich in nuances spanning Jazz, Ethnic Music influences, and refined symphonic atmospheres. Their skillful use of fusion influences gives this album a distinctive personality capable of captivating both genre enthusiasts and those seeking new sonic frontiers in Progressive Rock.
Tracklist
01. La Culpa (06:51)
02. Caen Las Hojas Blancas (05:46)
03. Kalimba (04:54)
04. Desolación (En) (01:10)
05. Tiempos Paralelos (05:13)
06. Las Mentiras Del Muro (05:14)
07. Relato De Una Obsesión. Parte I: Quimera (06:50)
08. Relato De Una Obsesión. Parte II: El Orate (06:04)
09. 7 Colores (04:19)
Lineup
Martín Peña / Vocals, Decorative Guitars (7 Colors)
Simón Catalán / Bass
Roberto Faúndez / Electric and Acoustic Guitar
Matías Bahamondes / Saxophone
Rodrigo González Mera / Drums and Percussion
Guest Musicians:
Benjamín Ruz / String Arrangements, Violins
Javiera González / Viola
Ariadna Kordovero / Cello
