“It’s heavier on guitar and there are few synthesizers” says Chang Won Chang about his newest project, Perihelion. “It’s like a caveman diet.” Chang, known on stage as Dr Neanderthal, says his creative process is much like the prehistoric nature of the paelo diet- heavy on the proteins and light on the carbs.
Chang’s five- track album is audibly dark and primitive, influenced by the ambient sounds of Brian Eno and 90’s drum & bass. Chang doesn’t sing, but rather howls and echoes his lines. Lyrically, the album is based on the theme of perihelion – the point in orbit in which the Earth is closest to the sun. “Life is a cycle, and sometimes it can be really intense,” explains Chang. “And that intensity is different for different people.” So in his songs, the subject matters are left up to the interpretations of his listeners. “The songs can be about love or even your job.”
The D.C. based musician is currently working on a brighter, "poppier" album he is hoping to release next year. For now, take a listen to the unique sounds of Dr Neanderthal’s Perihelion below. — Sade A. Spence