[MV + TRACK REVIEW] Solo - Chrissy Mae Valentine
I watched Donnie Darko the night before finishing this write-up, so shout out to Esky (@esky.esk) for making me realise that bunny-masked men can DJ’s. But it’s the aptly named Chrissy Mae Valentine (@chrissymaevalentine) we’re here for, whose debut single Solo is ready to launch you into the Valentine’s Day feels. If you love your Tuxedo, your Chromeo or your Dua Lipa, you’ve come to the right place. The track is accompanied with gorgeous visuals from director Jason Queue (@jasonqueue), because you can never really have too much neon.
‘Lookin’ like an Instagram photo’
Image Credit: Solo cover art (Provided by artist).
The synth drenched instrumental is produced by Bencio, whose own credits extend to local artists such as Maxine and Jessica Jade. Blending modern hues of hip-hop with the infectious dancefloor appeal of 80’s pop, Bencio’s groove pairs well with the energy that Valentine gives off. Between the powerhouse choruses of the songstress, we’re also treated to a halftime breakdown and funky bridge. As a fellow filo musician, I appreciate the halo-halo. Pop music can be really boring (I’m looking at you KYGO).
Speaking of the bridge, Queue really comes through with the chops when we jump from streets, to the dancefloor, and back again. I didn’t even really notice that the dance routines were synced perfectly on my first watch (I was still busy thinking about the plausibility of VHS Tinder). The colours in the video were spot on as well, really bridging the gap between bubblegum pop and Blade Runner.
‘Me and my best friends’
Image Credit: Solo music video directed by Jason Queue (Provided by artist).
Valentine states that the track is an ode to the rollercoaster of single life, with all its excitement and longing. But after that last scene, it’s the longing for the dancefloor that really hits hard. With her performance bookended by Esky, Valentine finishes the night alone on the floor, holding the disco ball the way I hold a bag of Reece’s Peanut Butter Cups after a gym session.
With a debut vocal performance that can only be described as stellar, Valentine’s Solo has raised the bar for Western Sydney pop music. So what are you waiting for? Assemble your rollerskating backup dancers and stream Solo here.
