If you don’t like the reality you see, create the reality you want to see. That’s precisely what singer, songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, producer, and shape-shifting art-rock enchanter Lady Charles (they/them) did. Amid the turmoil of 2020, they dreamed up a sweet, stylish, and tolerant society that harmoniously coexists in a universe plush with brown shag carpets and splashes of purple and pink.
“During that time, I had a chance to step back and become clear on what I considered beautiful. I got into makeup, photography, and became more disciplined as a singer by taking voice lessons,” the Ottawa, Canada-based artist reflects. “I emerged with a new voice, a new image, and a new outlook.”
Lady Charles’s artistic vision is wide and kaleidoscopic, encompassing folk, indie-rock, electronica, punk, glam, funk, pop, and hip-hop. Their songs delve into themes of gender, apocalypse, and lost friendships. To date, Lady Charles releases have featured contributions from members of Tokyo Police Club, Raphael Saadiq’s band, Lavola, and Valois. Currently, Lady Charles is working on their next project, composing music for the play “Oh Boy!”—a critically acclaimed work commissioned for the Ottawa Fringe Festival.
Lady Charles’ new single “Hands” embarks on a musical journey from progressive rock pastiche to dark, intense synthscapes, culminating in a soaring anthemic chorus with spirited disco grooves. The track signifies a powerful evolution in Charles’ love for intricate, grandiose walls of sound, a hallmark established on the “Manic Pixie Dream World” LP. Drawing influences from David Bowie, Chic, Late of the Pier, of Montreal, Kate Bush, MGMT, and U2, the track stands as a rock epic in miniature. In an era where streaming often dictates shorter songs loaded with hooks, Charles defies this trend by creating self-contained sonic journeys that subvert listener expectations, rewarding them with moments of grand pop bliss.
“I love pop songwriting, but I don’t love the tendency for pop music to rely on formulas because that becomes boring fast,” Charles explains.
“Hands” reflects Lady Charles’s commitment to pushing artistic boundaries. The song seamlessly blends genres, creating a sonic tapestry that captivates and intrigues. The synthscapes provide a moody undercurrent, while the anthemic chorus elevates the listener to euphoric heights. The spirited disco grooves add a touch of danceable exuberance, making the track a dynamic and multifaceted experience.
Next, Lady Charles is completing their “Oh Boy!” EP and planning a unique covers album project. Reflecting on their successes, their manic pixie journey, and their future, Lady Charles shares, “When I decided to do this, I wanted to be uncompromising in my vision. I put a lot of myself into this, and seeing it connect and have a positive impact on people means so much to me.”
With “Hands,” Lady Charles continues to push the boundaries of art-rock, creating a world where music transcends the ordinary and invites listeners into a vibrant, imaginative universe. Their ability to seamlessly blend various musical styles and influences sets them apart as a truly innovative artist. As they forge ahead, Lady Charles remains dedicated to their unique artistic vision, shaping a reality filled with beauty, creativity, and boundless possibilities.
By embracing their true self and crafting a world that reflects their vision of beauty and inclusivity, they have created a musical experience that resonates deeply with listeners. “Hands” is not just a song; it is an invitation to join Lady Charles in a world where music, art, and identity intersect in the most beautiful and unexpected ways. As they continue to evolve and inspire, Lady Charles stands as a beacon of artistic integrity and fearless creativity.
