Chenel No. 1 Dives ‘Heart First, Head Last’ – Single Review
Chenel No. 1, the rising indie sensation from South Africa, has captured our hearts and heads alike with her latest release, “Heart First, Head Last.” This talented artist, crowned the Best New Artist at the South Africa Music Awards in 2022, unveils a song that is both heartfelt and heady, showcasing a unique blend of upbeat drums, energetic melodies of synthesizers and some distorted guitars. The result is a very catchy song that sticks in your head instantly. It reminds me of the golden age of Brit Pop.
The song opens with a groovy beat and an acoustic guitar before it reveals the catchy chorus. Chenel has a warm and rich voice that allows her vocals to take centre stage in the song without losing the power of the distorted guitars.
“Heart First, Head Last” lyrically explores the complexities of love and decision-making, a theme universally resonant yet uniquely interpreted by Chenel. Her poetic approach to songwriting weaves a narrative that delves into the tumultuous dance between following one’s heart and the rationality that the head often imposes. The juxtaposition of these elements creates a lyrical depth that invites introspection, making the track not only an auditory experience but a reflective journey for the listener.
Chenel has the ability to blend genres, creating a sound that is unique to her music.
In conclusion, “Heart First, Head Last” by Chenel No. 1 is a captivating release that solidifies her standing as a formidable indie artist. The song’s up tempo beat, the lyrics, the warm vocals and powerful guitars make it a compelling addition to the indie music landscape. As the best South African Newcomer of 2022, Chenel No. 1 is undoubtedly an artist to watch, and “Heart First, Head Last” is a promising glimpse into her musical artistry.
Chenel proved to be a hit machine before with songs like “Hercules”, “Master of Disguise” and “You Have to Breathe”. We’re just waiting for the first full album now.
