In the vibrant music scene of New York City, a new voice is emerging, one that blends eclectic sounds with profound cultural narratives. Chanpan, a trio consisting of Grace Dumdaw and identical twins Lance and Matthew Tran, is captivating audiences with their unique blend of alt-pop. Their recent single, i got a gun is a testament to their ability to weave dreamy melodies with fiery intensity, creating a sound that is both haunting and invigorating.
The band’s name, Chanpan, is a beautiful fusion of their cultural identities. It combines the Chinese pronunciation of Lance and Matthew’s surname, 陳 with part of Grace’s Kachin name, Seng Hkam Pan. This fusion is not just in their name but also in their music, which reflects their shared experiences growing up in middle America and working in their family restaurants. This deep connection fosters a mutual understanding that resonates through their harmonious sounds.
The Eclectic Sound of Chanpan
Chanpan’s music is a journey through various genres and sounds, both within and between their songs. This eclectic approach is a reflection of their diverse music tastes and their desire to break away from conventional norms. For instance, the upright bass in their previous singles is a nod to jazz legend Herbie Hancock, while the bell kit reminds Lance of his middle school days. Their sound choices are often made on a whim, driven by a desire to try something new and uncharted.
Their song Jungle starts with a mesmerizing orchestral sound that crescendos into a drum-filled electronic sound, creating a transcendent and intense experience. On the other hand, ooweeooweeoo is a chaotic yet delightful track with an instant happy-pill beat. This ability to blend different genres and sounds is what sets Chanpan apart from their peers.
Cultural Influences and Artistic Expression
Chanpan’s cultural backgrounds and ethnicities play a significant role in their musicality and artistry. Grace Dumdaw, who is Kachin, an ethnic tribe from Northern Myanmar, uses her music as a platform to honor her people. She is aware of the responsibility that comes with having a platform and wants to be a good representative of her community. This is particularly challenging given the taboo subjects she addresses as a queer non-binary artist.
The trio’s music is a reflection of their cultural identities and the challenges they face. Their EP, autogratis released in June, is a testament to their growth as artists. The EP captures the whirlwind of their experiences, flitting between sounds and themes that reflect their fluid creative vehicle. Their music is a journey of self-discovery and empowerment, as seen in songs like romantic which Grace describes as a song that makes her feel empowered during challenging times.
Chanpan’s Vision and Future
Chanpan’s music videos are known for their distinct visual worlds. Their latest era is a departure from the world-building of their first EP, focusing instead on small vignettes that closely fit each song. For instance, the video for buzzin has a ‘sexy pillow fight, making out on TV’ type energy, while the video for I got a gun leaves room for interpretation. Their collaboration with talented individuals like Petro Politaiev, a breakdancing child, adds a unique touch to their visuals.
Looking ahead, Chanpan is set to embark on a string of North American dates. Their music is a celebration of their cultural identities and a call to action for meaningful change. As they continue to grow and evolve, Chanpan is poised to make a significant impact on the alt-pop scene and beyond.
