The first album of Mona Lissa Chanda titled “Queen of Games” is a wonderful blend of jazz, blues, soul and pop that is timeless as well as fresh. All the songs are stories of love, heartbreak and resilience, seamlessly combining an old-school appeal with contemporary frankness.
The album starts with the song “Casual Affair”, in which the soft and smoky voice of Chanda gradually gains momentum, leading to a strong chorus. It predetermines the atmosphere of an album which treats emotions like a game- sweet occasionally, sharp occasionally.
The album soul is the title track “Queen of Games”. It has the atmospheric, Bond-movie quality and creates the image of a woman who shields her heart with the charm. It is stylish, theatrical and memorable.
“Professional Victim” has a funky Motown vibe and it feels great to be free of toxic love. “Pavlola Blues” is flirtatious, whereas “Never the Man for Me” brings the album to an end with uncovered emotion and gripping narration.
The moody triad of songs such as the “Secret Muse,” “Casual Affair” and the Queen of Games- are like scenes in a movie where love is a dangerous game. In the meantime, “Alone With U” and “Happy Place” reveal the sweeter, more optimistic side of Chanda.
The album is produced together with Paul Cargnello and sounds like a combination of retro style and sensitivity. Chanda sounds can alter smoothly among tender, powerful and soulful.
“Queen of Games” is not just music, it is as if you are sitting over wine with a wise friend and are sharing secrets. It is hip, cool and very human. This album is essential listening to anybody that has ever loved and lost or indeed has ever attempted to work it all out.
