It’s not often one witnesses an Auckland-based three-piece exert the raw energy and mosh-inducing atmosphere like Nirvana once delivered to underground Seattle clubs.

Street Chant, an alternative grunge-influenced rock band; conjured up exactly that at the Snake Pit on High Street to promote their double A-side single release. Playing at floor level, the band stared down an loose crowd with a monstrous, deafening set.

They covered all the bases, playing several tracks from their 2011 debut record “Means,” including fan-favourite a bFM hit “Scream Walk” - a fast-paced psychedelic punk anthem with a signature opening riff and chanting melody.

The first single to be showcased was “Frail Girls” – a three minute blast of frustration at self involved ’pretty girls’, complete with addictive guitar licks and driving power chords.

Their second single, “Salad Daze,” captures Street Chant’s slower, hypnotic style with a memorable breakdown and blaring finale that exhibits the drumming talent of Alex Brown.

Street Chant are undoubtedly a formidable force to experience live – a sound that was not exactly captured on their lo-fi debut album.

Fronted by Emily Littler on guitar and vocals, Billie Rogers on bass, and Brown behind the drum kit, there is a rebellious chemistry that unites the trio.

After seeing them for the first time at the Big Day Out 2011 (in which they played the morning slot), Street Chant are definitely a band that is well at home in a small, intimate club environment with a promising future ahead.

It is always refreshing to see a band with a live performance that blows their studio counterparts out of the water in comparison. Street Chant’s dark yet melodic style is perfectly suited for the colder months ahead – providing a fitting soundtrack for the winter ski trip. Be sure to check them out at a club near you!

By Jono Soo

Download the Double A-side Single Frail Girls/Salad Daze on iTunes.

Like them on their website.