Singer-songwriter Mona Lissa Chanda boldly arrives in a smoky cloud of soul, seduction, and sorrow on "Queen of Games," the evocative new single and title track from her debut full-length album. "Queen of Games" flirts around the edges of genre and escorts you into a smoky lounge where blues-rock slow dances with vintage soul and Americana moodiness. "Queen of Games" was co-produced with Montreal songwriter and producer veteran Paul Cargnello, resulting in a lush, cinematic listen. Cargnello's exquisite guitar playing and lush arrangements envelop Mona Lissa's sultry vocals in velvety smoke. This track goes deep, twining, haunting melodies with emotional armor and longing themes.
At the heart of "Queen of Games," whose origins can be traced back to the mysterious women who moved in the shadows of Film Noir and the enigma of the James Bond heroines. She's magnetic, enigmatic, and unattainable, drawing admirers to her just to protect her heart behind battlements. It's a well-worn archetype through Mona Lissa's empathetic eye. Rather than villainize her, Mona Lissa offers up a portrait of a woman who has been deeply hurt and is starved for connection but terrified of the potential cost of exposure. Mona Lissa's voice is strong and sad, evoking Amy Winehouse's ache, Sade's grace, and Tracy Chapman's undaunted belief. "Queen of Games" is at once thoughtful and audaciously current.
Mona Lissa Chanda is a fresh voice with an old soul, and "Queen of Games" shows she's playing everything according to her rules. She welcomes you into her world where that glamour knows no bounds and a proper becoming is worth the price of any and all things, and you witness the collision between high and low, glitter and doom, for every heartbreak has a sound, and each heavy moment has a beat. Whether you're drawn to the smoky vibes or the emotional depth, Mona Lissa isn't another act on the rise. She's the queen of her game.
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