Drawing us in with an almost psychedelic guitar soundscape that feels trippy and partially grunge adjacent, Chantal Acda opens the Radio Edit of Heads with atmosphere and subversive intrigue. The lyrics feel philosophical, as does the wider sentiment of the track. There is metaphorical depth shared, as well as wisdom.
There are syncopated sonic moments, as the textured drums created ebbs and flows with their raw and unfiltered riffs. The overarching soundscape is immersive, almost shoe gaze, with an Eastern nuance that adds an almost vampiric vibe – reminding us of something that might have been played in The Bronze in Buffy The Vampire Slayer, or perhaps even the upcoming reboot.
The hook, “We keep our heads…” is actually quite inspiring as a concept, and we learn that the message and poetic prowess of the song was actually crafted as a collective. “For the first time, the lyrics are inspired by stories that are not my own. They are universal, but connected to the stories given to me by the band members. It’s like a book we all wrote together”, confesses Chantal.
The band features Chantal Acda on vocals and guitar, whilst Alan Gevaert performs a brooding bassline, with Eric Thielemans tripping us out on drums, Niels van Heertum on euphonium and keys adding that astral energy, and Gaetan Vandewoude slaying on guitar.
Heads intentional moves away from Chantal’s signature delicate sound, and embraces a raw, rock sensibility with a clearly high emotional quotient. It also serves as the first glimpse into Chantal Acda‘s upcoming album The Whale!
Fans of PJ Harvey, Cat Power, and Blonde Redhead will definitely be able to connect with what Chantal is manifesting and her genre expansive alternative rock sound. Naturally, we have added Heads to our New Music Spotlight playlist, and our TRIPPY and TIMELESS playlists, whilst we continue to stream Chantal Acda‘s wider discography, and anticipate the entirety of The Whale!