Melbourne’s Melodic Dubstep Prodigy Chenda Unveils His Debut Album
Chenda, the talented melodic dubstep artist from Melbourne, has just launched his highly anticipated debut album, captivating fans globally. This 11-track compilation highlights his exceptional production skills, delivering powerful and emotionally charged anthems.
Now available through Proximity Records, a prominent player in the electronic music landscape, Chenda’s album is aptly titled Serenity. However, the name might be somewhat deceptive; the album features potent melodic dubstep productions and heartfelt lyrics that evoke a spectrum of emotions. Over the course of 42 minutes, Chenda is joined by notable artists including Harley Bird, Lexi Scatena, and GILLIAD, enhancing the impactful vocal performances throughout. The producer provides insights into each track’s inspiration and creation process:
1. Everything Matters
The prelude “Everything Matters” captures the tumultuous journey of life and love, reflecting on the fleeting moments that shape our existence. Initially part of the track “Ruins,” I realized that the voicemail line I crafted encapsulated the album’s theme, leading me to present it as a standalone introduction.
2. Ruins
My collaboration with Lexi began two years ago during a studio session with Synymata in LA, and we quickly formed a strong friendship. After finishing the instrumental for “Ruins,” I instantly recognized Lexi’s ability to infuse it with her unique touch. This track explores the intricacies of a toxic relationship, vividly portraying emotional entrapment and the desperate pursuit of freedom. We believe “Ruins” is profoundly impactful due to its intense lyrical narrative and authentic emotional expression.
3. Salvation
Creating “Salvation” with Hannah was an incredibly special experience, as our collaborative process flows seamlessly and is always enjoyable. This song started as a demo for “Ruins” that Hannah sent me previously, and I was instantly inspired by her vocals, prompting me to develop a new instrumental around them. Combining her heartfelt lyrics with my energetic production resulted in a track that we’re immensely proud of, enriched with authentic emotional depth.
4. Be Alone
“Be Alone” addresses my struggles with severe depression from a few years back, during which I felt silently suicidal without sharing my pain. This song is the most personal piece I’ve written, often bringing me to tears when played. It delves into self-discovery, mental health, and the healing process ensuing from a toxic breakup, resonating with anyone grappling with the haunting aftermath of a lost relationship.
5. The Wall
My collaboration with Awon and WISNER on “The Wall” introduced an intensity to my sound that I seldom achieve on my own. I was thrilled to receive the demo from Awon, whose talent and heavy production I’ve admired for a long time. This track marks my first duet, and WISNER’s and my vocal harmonies blend beautifully, making me incredibly proud of this collaboration.
6. Novocaine
“Novocaine” originated over two years ago in my university dorm, evolving slowly due to its complex nature. The song articulates the emotional numbness accompanying heartbreak, expressing the yearning to escape pain and the temporary highs that lead to profound lows, represented by references to drugs like novocaine and oxytocin. This track aims to resonate with those navigating the emotional cycle of heartache.
7. Hard To Forget You
I began “Hard To Forget You” with a different vocal and a slower tempo but struggled to infuse the energy required to match the album’s vibe. Meeting Kindred in a Los Angeles studio enabled us to collaboratively write this song in one exhilarating session, one of my most enjoyable studio experiences. This track speaks to the nostalgia and difficulty of letting go while still holding on.
8. Take Me Home
In stark contrast to my typically aggressive sound, “Take Me Home” embraces a chill, grounded vibe. I aimed to convey a longing for comfort amid emotional turmoil, with lyrics that express a quest for solace in a chaotic world. Interestingly, as I prepare to relocate across the country, this track has helped me realize that home is more about the people we love than the physical destination.
9. Twenty Five
“Twenty Five” showcases some of my finest vocal production and is a delightful collaboration with Nina Sung [GILLIAD]. Created around the same time as “Novocaine,” I crafted distinct drop intensities to position this track as a sequel to “Be Alone.” Collaborating with Nina, whose work I’ve adored since her ILLENIUM hit “Only One,” is a dream come true.
10. Elastic
In “Elastic,” I explore the complexities of love that fluctuates, sometimes threatening to unravel completely. My collaboration with Ryscu and Veronica Bravo infuses this track with vibrant energy, capturing the dynamics of a relationship filled with both passion and tension. It highlights the resilience needed to navigate love’s struggles, resonating with many who understand the pressures of connection amidst emotional upheaval.
11. Elastic
Ryscu and I have been friends since meeting online four years ago, and though we’ve created various tracks together, “Elastic” marked our first collaboration. I was immediately captivated by the song at first listen, and Veronica Bravo’s heartfelt vocals and songwriting elevate it significantly. This track encapsulates the resilience needed to manage love’s hurdles, resonating deeply with listeners who experience the complexities of desire.
As the album concludes, Chenda reflects on the overarching themes and messages of Serenity. Discover his insights and listen to the album now!
“The things you cannot change about yourself – you don’t run away from it all – you just accept it. The things you can change, however – you must find the courage to do so. And in life, it’s always important to develop the skill of telling the two apart in the best way possible. Now it may take a few months, a few years, maybe even a few decades to reach this point – but with enough of a willingness to improve and embrace your own storm, you can finally be free. You can finally be in serenity.”
-Chenda
