Tim: Sia’s last one, Elastic Heart, was a bit of a damp squib compared to Chandelier, as far as I’m concerned. This one, though, released last year but with a video just out and the UK release date coming up, somewhat redresses the balance.
Tom: Huh. Still collaborating with the same dancer, Maddie Ziegler. I can’t easily watch it — it’s too distracting from the music, too close, too much. Modern dance has never really been something that works with me. What makes you think this is a good track, though?
Tim: That chorus, mostly, because I’m tempted to describe it as stunning. Interesting message, going against the message mummy and daddy probably taught you, but with very persuasive arguments to justify that, and backing production to make everything she sings entirely and definitely true, no questions asked.
Tom: The thing that made Chandelier work for me, above all else, were the incredible vocals, that high register and that soaring verse — plus a melody that was astonishing on its own. This is still recognisably Sia, and she’s still got an excellent voice, but there’s neither soaring nor exceptional composing, and I’m still left a bit cold. Clearly, though, it works for you.
Tim: It really does – and would I like that backing to be carried over into the verses as well? Possibly – there’s always the argument that it would then lessen the impact of the chorus, but to be honest I wouldn’t mind that one tiny bit, because coming back in from that large middle eight still sounds great. MORE PLEASE.