Toronto singer’s Chills & Thrills has ups and downs
Toronto musician Saya’s debut EP Chills & Thrills is a glimpse at the city’s contribution to the contemporary pop scene, mixing elements of early 2000s R&B with smooth, lofty vibes. Released near the end of January, the EP has been accompanied by three music videos: “Paid,” “Cold Fire,” and “On Ice,” all displaying a glam aesthetic, effectively idolizing the lifestyles of the rich and beautiful. Her image exudes confidence and sexuality, encompassed within her lyrical content as well as her visual style; Chills & Thrills captures the image of a world glamorized by sex and money.
The EP begins with “Welcome to Paradise,” a subdued pop track, with vocal melodies reminiscent of Lorde and song structure reminiscent of Kali Uchis. However, while the track seems to draw on the dynamics of both artists, it lacks the innovation and identity that would separate it from other current pop acts. This is echoed throughout the majority of the EP, notably in songs “On Ice” and “No Pressure.” Despite their initially intriguing sound, they quickly lose momentum as Saya’s stagnant vocals and lyricism fail to propel the songs. The glossy pop hooks aren’t enough to make up for the lacklustre verses, and get lost within the songs’ repetitive structures.
However, the EP redeems itself in the second half, as the interlude “Vertigo” changes the tempo and pushes Saya’s vocal style towards an increasingly melodious, upbeat, and distinct sound otherwise lacking in the first half. The next two songs, “Paid ft. KRIS” and “Cold Fire,” are the highlights of the album. The songs offer examples of Saya’s versatility and her ability to perform well within the framework of contemporary pop and R&B. “Cold Fire,” with its catchy hook and praiseworthy instrumental work, is Saya at her best, displaying her vocal strength.
In its entirety, Chills & Thrills is a solid debut EP, encompassing Saya’s talents within the dynamics of pop and R&B. Her lyricism, though lacking and quite bland on a majority of the tracks, stands out on “Cold Fire,” and appears as a solid expression of sexual confidence and Saya’s evolving vocal style. Overall, the EP lacks in its lyrical content and general uniqueness, but represents Saya’s emergence as a growing pop artist in her own right.
Photo courtesy of iTunes via CC0