The Chills Sunburnt

Recorded in 1996 during a turbulent chapter in The Chills’ history, Sunburnt stands as a deeply introspective and underappreciated release from the late, great Martin Phillipps. Following the collapse of the band’s original US lineup and an ill-fated UK trip that saw the new group turned away at Heathrow, these songs were ultimately shaped into what became, in essence, a Phillipps solo album.

Recorded in the UK with notable collaborators including Fairport Convention’s Dave Mattacks and XTC’s Dave Gregory, Sunburnt reveals a more reflective and emotionally raw side of Phillipps’ songwriting. The album’s melodic sophistication and lyrical depth capture an artist in transition — searching, vulnerable and quietly resilient.

Now back on vinyl for the first time in three decades, this Record Store Day 2026 edition features revitalised artwork and is pressed on limited 150g orange coloured vinyl. A significant chapter in The Chills’ story, Sunburnt remains a poignant and essential listen for fans of intelligent, melodic indie rock.