Review: "Changes" - CHAI

With a catchy chorus and pop-rock vibes, CHAI’s “Changes” delivers a relatable message with a sense of artful defiance. Sentimental lyrics reflect on CHAI’s experience with those who can’t handle change, or her growth as a person. All she does is “watch you drown” and she’s always “let down”, prompting the topic of the song: change as a solution. She builds herself up with “nobody’s help” and tragically sings “I’m all good by myself”. The chorus is triumphant and one-sided, with “changes, I make them/ but you can’t seem to face it,” calling out those who negate positive, necessary change. CHAI’s voice is smooth and acute, gracing each measure with a surreal sound. Altogether, this track offers a lesson dipped into a steady soundscape.

CHAI’s intro is a layered masterpiece of electric strings that compliment her suede vocals. The beat resembles rock genres in a way that interacts with pop techniques. The tone setting of the guitar might contribute to this sound, alongside rhythmic precision and production. The pattern and structure of the track is thoughtful and effective with dramatic pauses, uplifting acceleration, and slowed emphasis. The ending reiteration of the delayed chorus works to leave an impression, and succeeds. Punk belts nearing the end of the track re-energize the listener before closing with another assertion of “I’m all good by myself,” which serves as the conclusion to her emotional song. 

At 24 years old, CHAI sings and writes songs in Toronto. She’s inspired by Dolly Parton’s storytelling and Michael Jackson’s style, all while acknowledging 2000’s pop-rock through her nostalgic sound. She bridges genres with facility given her vocal and instrumental range. Having written songs for artists under Grammy-nominated producer Roy Hamilton, more listeners are learning about CHAI. In addition to this, she has published a book of lyrical poetry called “Songs Scrapped”, which communicates her journey as an artist. She’s toured with DREAMMORE STUDIO in Canada, and has a developing reach around the world. I can’t wait to see what CHAI does next! Visit her socials linked below for more information.

Written By Hanna Hathaway

FOLLOW CHAI:

Instagram | Spotify | TikTok