In the bustling streets of Bristol, a talented pop-rock indie-rock singer-songwriter by the name of Chandra has graced the music scene with his latest offering, “Smile (No Fox Gibbon),” which he released on October 27th. Following the success of his critically acclaimed single “Pretty” in August, Chandra’s “Smile (No Fox Gibbon)” radiates an infectious energy that’s designed to put a grin on our faces and a spring in our steps. This euphoric and uplifting anthem challenges us to toss aside our fears of judgment and just smile, laugh, and dance as if nobody were watching.
With an excellent introduction that gives the song a euphoric and delightful feeling right from the word go, the opening lines, “As we tread these streets with heads down low, loveless robots, row by row,” set the stage for the song’s theme. Chandra’s vocals, the driving force behind this track, exude an authentic and charismatic warmth. His voice is versatile and effortlessly transitions from gentle introspection to a spirited and infectious chorus. The lyrics, like “Start grinning, start winning, less fox gibbon, and it’s starting to show,” encourage a sense of liberation, urging us to embrace our inner selves, our “little monsters,” as he calls them, and let them shine through. With this, the lyrics are not only catchy but cleverly written and I appreciate how clear they appear. The lyricism is easygoing, with the melody playing a great second fiddle to the rest of the sections, coming together to create something spicey and unique.
Without capping, “Smile (No Fox Gibbon)” is a captivating song that delves into the theme of embracing one’s true self and breaking free from the constraints of societal norms and inhibitions. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a world where people often hide their true emotions and feelings, becoming “loveless robots,” highlighting how individuals can become emotionally detached and robotic in their interactions when they suppress their true selves. So, the song encourages us to smile, laugh, and express ourselves without fear of judgment. It’s a reminder to let go of the emotional baggage and societal norms that hold us back, ultimately urging us to find joy in being our genuine selves. Chandra’s energetic and spirited delivery, coupled with the upbeat music, makes “Smile (No Fox Gibbon)” an uplifting anthem that resonates with anyone who has ever felt the need to break free from the constraints of social expectations and simply be themselves.
With a very interesting and fun melody, the production and instrumentation on this track are stellar and filled with catchy elements. The energetic guitar riffs and the rhythmic pulse of the drums provide a vibrant canvas upon which Chandra paints his musical masterpiece. The addition of a catchy “no fox gibbon” refrain is a stroke of brilliance, embedding itself in your mind and compelling you to sing along with unbridled enthusiasm. Let’s talk about the music video, a delightful visual accompaniment that perfectly complements the song’s narrative. Chandra takes on the role of a fox, and his counterparts, Aaron and Chris, don the costumes of gibbons. This whimsical choice of attire mirrors the carefree essence of the song, inviting us to embrace the playful, uninhibited aspects of our personalities. What truly elevates the music video, however, is its inclusion of people from all corners of the globe sharing their moments of joy. This communal celebration of happiness aligns perfectly with the song’s overarching theme—the universality of a smile.
In conclusion, “Smile (No Fox Gibbon)” is a pop-rock gem that encourages us to embrace the simple joys of life. Chandra’s inviting vocals, clever lyrics, and well-executed production make it a song that’s impossible not to sing along to. It’s a reminder to let our inner “little monster” shine and to smile as if there were no judgment or fear in the world. With this single, Chandra invites us to join in a joyous celebration of life, one unapologetic smile at a time.
Listen to “Smile (No Fox Gibbon)” by Chandra on Spotify, watch the video with the above link, and let us know your thoughts.
You can follow Chandra here for more information.
