Submarine Bells cover

Submarine Bells

The Chills · 1990

36 min · 12 tracks · alternative rock

A shimmering blend of jangly guitars and introspective lyrics wrapped in a dreamy, melodic haze.

Why this album works

'Submarine Bells' features the hit single 'Heavenly Pop Hit', which received significant airplay and helped the album reach No. 5 on the New Zealand charts. Its critical acclaim further cemented The Chills' reputation, contributing to the international recognition of the New Zealand alternative music movement during the early 1990s.
Best for
short, reflective listening sessions dreamy, melodic background ambiance contemplative late-night vibes
Context
Released in 1990, 'Submarine Bells' was The Chills’ third album and marked their return after a five-year hiatus following 'Brave Words'. By this time, the band had solidified their sound, drawing on influences from both the Dunedin sound and broader alternative rock, positioning them as key figures within the New Zealand music scene.
Stylistic neighbors
Splean· Bi-2· Blur

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 Heavenly Pop Hit Standout 3:28
  • 2 Tied Up in Chain 3:16
  • 3 The Oncoming Day 3:06
  • 4 Part Past Part Fiction Standout 2:56
  • 5 Singing in My Sleep 2:40
  • 6 I SOAR 3:05
  • 7 Dead Web 2:16
  • 8 Familiarity Breeds Contempt 3:21
  • 9 Don’t Be—Memory 4:46
  • 10 Effloresce and Deliquesce 2:45
  • 11 Sweet Times 0:42
  • 12 Submarine Bells Standout 3:41

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata