veer (vîr) v.1. To turn aside from a course, direction, or purpose; swerve.
chasm (kazõm) n.1. A deep, steep-sided opening in the earth's surface; an abyss or a gorge. 2. A pronounced difference of opinion, interests, or loyalty.
Veer Chasm...what's in the name? Many were asking the same thing when the band first released a self titled EP in early 1996. Since then they have created a sound often described as electronic, gothic, and modern rock; terms often not fit to co-exist, but worthy descriptions none the less. The new full length 2003 album, Suffer Cruel Children, hopes to reach even more people starved for something different. If 1997's Blade Halo LP was a rock album buried under a blast of noise, and 2001's the Depth of You was a nod to the band's shoegazer/gothic roots, then Suffer Cruel Children is a sonic departure characterized by a glam/noise/emo rock sound. The band infused their live energy on this record. Make no mistake: all of Veer Chasm's gothic and industrial dynamics can be found within, along with further explorations into Beatles-type pop. Twelve intensely beautiful songs that will not let go even after you've turned off the CD.
Veer Chasm hails from Riverside, California and was founded by Joel Dalangin (voice, guitars, programming ). Inspired by bands like the Cure, My Bloody Valentine, Portishead, Radiohead, and Smashing Pumpkins, they released the self titled Veer Chasm EP (1996). Veer Chasm upped the ante with the release of 1997's Blade Halo LP. These releases gained a loyal following over the USA and overseas where they were embraced by patrons of the bands' internet and underground radio presence. 1998 saw the addition of Zxsa on bass guitar and the release of the ascend EP. In 2002 Sara Pena joined to add her drumming talents to the fold. Veer Chasm is now playing shows and festivals all over the West Coast to support the new album.
Yes, we play live mostly in the greater L.A., California area. We love all of it, we just love to perform!
The Cure, Smashing Pumpkins, Portishead, My Bloody Valentine, Radiohead