In a world often dimmed by challenges, Chandra bursts forth with their debut EP, “Lifted,” a vibrant collection of six songs designed to uplift and inspire. With this release, the Bristol-based pop-rock outfit invites us on an exhilarating ride of self-acceptance, connection, and celebration of life’s joyful moments. After being enchanted by their previous singles like “Smile (No Fox Gibbon),” “I’ll Be There,” and the titular track “Lifted,” I found myself eagerly anticipating this EP. They have won our hearts with their infectious energy, and Lifted promises to amplify that connection, encapsulating the essence of embracing positivity and resilience. It was released on August 30 and plays for a total runtime of 22 minutes, 16 seconds. Let’s talk about it.
Opening the EP with the spirited “Smile (No Fox Gibbon),” Chandra invites us to let loose and embrace joy. This track is a melodic alt-rock gem that fuses playfulness with a deeper message about self-expression. Naiir’s vocals shine with mischievous charm, gliding effortlessly through verses before exploding into a bold and carefree chorus. The infectious beat, driven by electrifying guitar riffs and pulsing drums, amplifies the sense of freedom. The sleek yet organic production allows the song’s quirky brilliance to soar. Lines like “Find your little monster deep down inside, let it out, let it shout, nothing to hide” resonate as a call to abandon restraint and live authentically. As a listener, I felt the cathartic joy Chandra is known for, making “Smile” the perfect opening statement.
Next is “Pretty,” a moving track delivering an emotionally charged message of self-acceptance. Chandra’s powerful yet vulnerable vocals resonate deeply, particularly with the infectious refrain: “You should be who you are, and that’s what I call pretty.” These lyrics echo universal struggles with identity and belonging. The production here is crisp, with layered guitars creating a powerful backdrop for their message. The blend of grit and clarity in delivery, mirrors the song’s defiant spirit, reminding us that true beauty lies in authenticity. As the melodic hooks linger, “Pretty” stands as a song of empowerment and a memorable sonic experience.
The third track, “I’ll Be There” is perhaps the EP’s most emotive offering, blending a poignant acknowledgment of collective struggles with an uplifting message of hope and connection. The soaring vocals, filled with warmth and strength, perfectly capture the duality of vulnerability and resilience. The track’s melodic alt-rock arrangement, featuring delicate guitar riffs and rhythmic percussion, swells with emotion, reinforcing the song’s theme of solidarity. The infectious “Do-bah, do-be-do-bah” refrain lends an air of camaraderie, making the song feel like a rallying cry for community and support. As the lyrics urge, “Lift your head, eyes wide, be a friend,” we are swept into a wave of collective empowerment. The production is polished but never overbearing, allowing the sincerity of the lyrics to take center stage.
And then there’s the title track, “Lifted,” the most emblematic of Chandra’s feel-good rock ethos. This song is a pure burst of joy, from the radiant guitar riffs to the soulful, soaring vocals. The production is light and airy, making the music lift you with every chord. This track is about embracing the positivity in life, with the singer crooning, “So smile away, let’s just assume you’ll have a good day,” in a way that feels effortless yet deeply affirming. “Lifted” is a glowing reminder of the power of hope, and its energy makes it an instant anthem for living in the moment. Chandra’s voice glides seamlessly over the instrumentals, creating a comforting and exhilarating song.
Now, “Lighters To The Sky” brings a bold, triumphant spirit to the EP. This track’s message of perseverance and aiming high hits deeply, with lyrics like “Always aim high, let your dreams fly” serving as a rallying call for those of us on the edge of self-doubt. The vocal performance here is commanding, filled with raw emotion and strength. The instrumentation matches that intensity, with driving guitar riffs and dynamic percussion that build toward an explosive chorus. The production sharpens these elements, creating an empowering soundscape as the lyrics. “Lighters To The Sky,” as I have realized, is the kind of song that makes you want to raise your lighter in solidarity. It’s an anthem of defiance and courage.
Finally, the EP closes with “Overload,” a soul-stirring anthem that delves into the emotional weight of fear and hardship while offering a plea for redemption through love. The band’s vulnerability shines through as they navigate their feelings of desensitization, with poignant lyrics like “We have changed, desensitized.” The production on this track weaves delicate layers of acoustic guitar and alt-rock elements, lifting the track’s message of rebirth and faith nicely. As a result, it’s a closing piece that reminds us that even in our darkest times, love illuminates our paths, leaving a lingering impact long after the music fades.
In Lifted, Chandra has crafted a collection of songs that resonate deeply with themes of self-acceptance, connection, and the joy of living authentically. Each track offers a unique emotional journey, showcasing their vibrant spirit and undeniable talent. As they invite us to share in their message of positivity and resilience, it becomes clear that they are not just a band but a movement, ready to light up the music scene. So, if you’re seeking an EP that will fill you with good vibes and inspire you to achieve anything, look no further than Chandra’s “Lifted.” It will leave you beaming from ear to ear. As I listened, I couldn’t help but feel energized, inspired, and yes, lifted!
Listen to the “Lifted” EP by Chandra on Spotify
You can follow Chandra here for more information.
