Some great news folks! Chaidura is back. Our favourite Singaporean born, London based, visual kei meets k-pop artist, has a new single premiering today and we couldn’t say no to writing a review. “Flower” is a song you truly need to hear – absolutely addictive, charming and crazy in the most amazing way. With all the doom and gloom of the recent events, lack of empathy or even common sense, Chaidura sprinkles a little bit of magic with his music. And this tiny light of hope is what we have to hang on to – to survive and remain sane.
“Flower” single cover
Official bio: Chaidura strips everything back in his most vulnerable release to date, “Flower”, out now on all major streaming platforms. Known for genre-bending soundscapes and theatrical production, Chaidura takes a bold turn inward—delivering a heartfelt, guitar-driven anthem that redefines what makes Chaidura Chaidura. At first listen, Flower might sound like a wistful ballad about first love—the kind that leaves a lasting imprint on your soul. And in many ways, it is. But beneath the surface, this love song reveals a deeper meaning: a tribute to Chaidura’s unwavering love for rock music.
As the PR note promises, “Flower” is a very, very different song than several singles released over the last few months (“VIP Let Down Package“, “John Whiskers”, “Cotton Candy“). It indeed reminds me of the 1990’s j-rock ballads, with their dramatic vocals, bleeding guitar solos (think Prince on “While My Guitar Gently Weeps” from 2004 Rock and Roll Hall Of Fame Induction for George Harrison) and the emotional vulnerability that usually mists your eyes and gives you goosebumps. Naturally, Chaidura is a decent guitarist but nowhere near the legendary skills of the Prince himself, but both share the same deeply rooted love for the most famous string instrument in the world. Prince used to say that each of his guitars was like a long time partner, and I can see why “Flower” may seem like a love song for many listeners.
You never forget your first true love, and you never forget the feeling when you hear your favourite type of music for the first time. I must have been just two or three, but I have this vivid memory of an absolute euphoria whenever I heard Alan Parsons Project “Don’t Answer Me” on the TV or radio. My parents have teased me for years saying I was obsessed with that song and I wanted to enter the TV unit to be closer to it. I’m sure everyone who truly appreciates music has a story like that to tell. I never recovered from loving rock music in all its forms and “Flowers” seems to me like an anthem to fellow otaku.
Chaidura in “Flower” photo session
“It’s just me and my guitar,” says Chaidura about the new single. “That’s how it all began and ‘Flower’ is me embracing that part of myself unapologetically. The song is about your first love, the kind of love that never really leaves you. For me, that love has always been rock music. No matter how far I stray or how much I evolve, I always find myself coming back to it. It’s a part of me. Just like a first love always is.
”The song stands at only three minutes and six seconds. Chaidura wouldn’t be himself if he didn’t waive an entire sonic tapestry from multiple genres: from anime soundtrack to nu metal, J-pop, J-rock, black metal, pop, to alternative rock, electro pop and adult contemporary. For those who are not familiar with his music, the sudden jumps from acoustic pop to black metal may seem extreme but there is a beautiful harmony in this apparent chaos. Chaidura is probably the only artist we know who is not afraid to experiment with styles, sounds and works hard to break the musical moulds whenever he sees them. His songs are like a crazy car ride: full pelt, sharp corner, going up and then crashing down, turning left and right – all of this under strict control of a creator that knows what he wants to achieve.
“Flower” has J-pop grove, K-pop insanely addictive melody, 90’s post grunge harmonized backing vocals (with repetitions which I simply adore!), early 90’s black metal growling vocals that would make the gents from At The Gates or Cannibal Corpse green with envy and 2000’s Japanese pop rock guitar parts. Mixed together, “Flower” is a song that will shake you and stir you and give you a push outside of your musical comfort zone. Chai is not everyone’s cup of tea, but will always offer you some (plus something sweet that will definitely rot you!). So put your headphones on, find a comfortable place to listen without distraction and dive deep into Chaidura’s rich sonic kingdom.
“Flower” heralds the arrival of his next EP, so hang onto your seats Dorothies. Once it arrives, you will not be in Kansas anymore. I actually have no bloody idea where Chaidura will take us next, but I’m looking forward to the trip. My bags are already packed.
“Flower” is out now on all streaming platforms. This is our single of the month. 5 stars, 5 flowers (whichever you want) or 5 acoustic guitars from us at Vanadian Avenue.
You can follow Chaidura online:
https://www.chaidura.com
https://www.facebook.com/chaiduraofficial
https://www.instagram.com/chaidura_
https://www.tiktok.com/@chaidura
https://soundcloud.com/chaidura
https://www.youtube.com/@chaidura
https://discord.com/invite/xEAftePfdY
https://open.spotify.com/artist/5G44MxEPEbE3JMDz1azv9N
Rita Dabrowicz
Indieterria 