CHVE is the solo project of Colin H. van Eeckhout, best known as the vocalist of Belgian sludge band Amenra. Emerging from Kortrijk, CHVE explores a far more minimal and meditative approach to sound, focusing on atmosphere, ritual, and emotional intensity rather than traditional song structures.
While Amenra is known for its overwhelming heaviness, CHVE moves in a quieter but no less powerful direction. Using sparse instrumentation, resonant drones, and deeply expressive vocals, the project creates music that feels ceremonial and introspective — often blurring the boundaries between ambient, drone, and experimental folk traditions.
At the centre of CHVE is Colin H. van Eeckhout’s distinctive voice, which shifts between fragile whispers, resonant chants, and haunting melodic passages. Performances frequently feature instruments such as the hurdy-gurdy, an ancient string instrument whose droning tones suit the project’s hypnotic aesthetic particularly well.
The music is intentionally stripped back, allowing space and repetition to shape the listening experience. Rather than relying on traditional rock dynamics, CHVE often unfolds slowly, building a contemplative atmosphere that feels closer to ritual or meditation than conventional performance.
Colin H. Van Eeckhout is a Belgian musician and artist. After losing his father at the age of twenty, he turned to music as a way of processing grief and personal struggle. The legendary hardcore punk band Spineless became his first outlet for transforming pain into artistic expression.
In 1999, he co-founded Amenra alongside guitarist Mathieu Vandekerckhove, seeking a deeper artistic direction through heavy, atmospheric music. As a founding member, Van Eeckhout continues to play a central role in both the musical and visual identity of the band.
In 2005, he established the collective Church of Ra, bringing together like-minded musicians and visual artists connected through a shared creative philosophy.
Since 2014, Van Eeckhout has explored a more stripped-down and introspective musical path under the name CHVE, focusing on drone-based compositions and ritualistic soundscapes.
Key CHVE releases include:
10910 (2016) – stark, atmospheric compositions centred around voice and drone
Kalvarie (2020) – meditative and solemn pieces rooted in ritual and minimalism
These recordings highlight the project’s minimalist philosophy, where atmosphere, voice, and repetition form the core of the listening experience.
All CHVE releases we carry are official physical formats only, focusing strictly on CD and vinyl editions sourced from Relapse Records and trusted distributors.
Although this page currently centres on audio releases, we’re also hoping to source official CHVE T-shirts, hoodies, and related merchandise in the future should they become available through approved channels.
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Availability can vary as pressings rotate, so if a title appears in stock it is usually worth acting promptly.
Listeners who appreciate the atmospheric weight of Amenra, the drone minimalism of Sunn O))), or the contemplative darkness of Wardruna may find CHVE’s music particularly compelling.
For those drawn to ritualistic sound, deep atmosphere, and minimalist composition, CHVE offers a distinctive and quietly powerful listening experience.
CHVE merch is available through Relapse Records - browse the full roster here.
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