FeaturesPopRock

Khalid & Jónsi ignite the chrome sparks

photo: Miya Folick

After a focused period spent crafting sounds behind the scenes, electronic artist and multi-instrumentalist Jeremy Malvin is ready to step back into the spotlight with his highly anticipated new album, Ball of Light. This project marks a significant creative shift for Chrome Sparks, as Malvin channels the last half-decade of collaboration and introspection into what he describes as “me finding myself again.”

The album is set to arrive on September 11th via Chrome Sounds/AWAL. To kick off the momentum, Malvin has already released the single “Sleeper,” a track that beautifully unites three distinct voices: Khalid’s soulful delivery, Jónsi’s unmistakable falsetto, and Chrome Sparks’ lush, cinematic electronic production.

The collaboration on “Sleeper” proves to be a sonic highlight, pairing Khalid’s smooth vocals with Jónsi’s soaring harmonies over shimmering electronic textures. It’s a powerful demonstration of Malvin’s ability to weave disparate musical elements into cohesive and emotionally resonant pieces.

Ball of Light is more than just a collection of songs; it represents an expansion of the artistic vision that first brought Chrome Sparks acclaim, including their breakthrough track “Marijuana.” This full-length effort delves into the blend of electronic music, ambient composition, and songwriting that defines Malvin’s unique sound, pushing those established ideas into even more expansive territories.

This latest release follows earlier acclaimed works like Goddess and Be on Fire, solidifying Malvin’s standing as an artist unafraid to explore deeply personal themes through sonic innovation.

While his spotlight has sometimes been focused on production work for other major artists, Malvin’s presence behind the boards is extensive. His credits span numerous successful projects, including work for Slayyyter on “Unknown Loverz” from WOR$T GIRL IN AMERICA, several tracks for Lily Allen’s West End Girl, and the hit “Sunset Blvd” by Selena Gomez and Benny Blanco for I Said I Love You First. He has also contributed to Mallrat’s Platinum-certified track “My Darling, My Angel.”

Malvin’s journey into music is rooted in a formative experience at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor, where he spent time immersed in the vibrant record scene of Wazoo Records. Recalling those days, he reflects on the unique atmosphere of the campus—a mix of record shops and bars that fueled his creative curiosity.

Even amidst his busy career as a producer, Malvin remains dedicated to the craft. His ability to transition seamlessly between creating immersive electronic soundscapes and contributing to diverse pop and indie projects demonstrates a versatile talent for crafting unforgettable musical experiences. With Ball of Light, Chrome Sparks is not just releasing an album; they are sharing a personal journey of rediscovery, wrapped in a sound that is both deeply emotional and irresistibly modern.