Picture yourself in a dimly lit jazz club, a smoky haze curling around the stage as a voice like velvet weaves tales of love, heartbreak, and enigmatic allure. That’s the vibe Mona Lissa Chanda delivers with her debut album Queen of Games, released on April 11, 2025. This Montreal-based singer-songwriter’s latest work is a masterclass in blending retro soul, jazz, and indie pop, with a nod to blues-rock and Americana that feels like unearthing a forgotten vinyl treasure. If you’re craving music that’s both timeless and fresh, buckle up—this album is your ticket to a sonic adventure. Let’s dive into the heart of Queen of Games and its spellbinding title track, plus get to know the artist behind the magic.
A Genre-Blending Gem with Heart and Soul
Mona Lissa Chanda’s Queen of Games is a 10-track journey that feels like a love letter to the 60s and 70s, yet it’s firmly rooted in today’s world with contemporary themes and genre-blending flair. Self-produced with veteran songwriter-producer Paul Cargnello in Montreal, the album showcases Mona Lissa’s sultry vocals and haunting melodies, paired with Cargnello’s gritty guitar hooks and tight rhythm sections. Tracks like “Professional Victim” and “Pavlova Blues” burst with Motown energy and sassy attitude, while “Forgotten Rose” and “Parts Unknown” tug at the heartstrings with raw vulnerability. The album’s eclectic mix—think Amy Winehouse’s soulful edge meets Tracy Chapman’s introspective storytelling—makes it a standout in the retro soul and indie pop scenes.
The title track, “Queen of Games,” is the album’s crown jewel and second single. Inspired by Film Noir classics and James Bond theme songs, it’s a seductive, jazz-infused number that tells the story of a mysterious woman who captivates men while guarding her heart. Mona Lissa’s voice drips with allure, narrating this paradox of longing and self-preservation. The music video, shot at the Montreal Art Center and Museum, flips the perspective to a male suitor caught in her game, adding a cinematic layer to the experience. With its smoky melodies and infectious groove, “Queen of Games” is the kind of song that lingers long after the final note fades.
What makes the album truly special is its emotional depth. Written during a period of personal loss and soul-searching in 2022, Mona Lissa channels her grief into songs that explore the push-and-pull of love and independence. As a neuroscientist who’s studied music’s therapeutic power, she crafts each track like a healing ritual. Whether it’s the Motown-fueled empowerment of “Professional Victim” or the alt-country charm of “Alone With U,” every song feels intentional, weaving wit, charm, and nostalgia into a cohesive narrative. Critics have already showered praise, with PlasticMag calling it “timeless and sophisticated” and HypeHub Magazine noting its “confessional, smoky melodies.”
Meet Mona Lissa Chanda: The Voice Behind the Mystery
Born in Northern Quebec to a German mother and East Indian father, Mona Lissa Chanda brings a unique perspective to her music. Raised in a culturally rich household, she found inspiration in artists like Sade, Melody Gardot, and Lake Street Dive, blending their sophistication with her own playful, noir-tinged style. Her 2014 EP Tip of My Tongue earned comparisons to Sarah Brightman, and she’s since performed at heavyweights like the Montreal International Jazz Festival and POP Montreal. With Queen of Games, she steps fully into her own as a storyteller and genre-blender.
Mona Lissa’s background as a neuroscientist adds another layer to her artistry. She understands how music can heal, and this album is proof. Tracks like “Never The Man For Me” and “Happy Place” reflect her journey through heartbreak to hope, delivered with a charisma that’s both intimate and universal. Her ability to balance dark themes with catchy hooks makes her music endlessly relatable—perfect for late-night drives or cozy vinyl sessions.
Why Queen of Games Is a Must-Listen
In a world where music trends come and go, Queen of Games feels like a timeless classic with a modern twist. It’s no surprise the lead single “Professional Victim” landed on the covers of Cashbox and Record World, with radio play in over 30 countries. The album taps into the growing revival of retro soul and jazz-pop, a trend we’ve seen with artists like Leon Bridges and Norah Jones dominating playlists. Whether you’re a fan of bluesy anthems or cinematic storytelling, this record has something for you.
Want to experience it for yourself? Check out the “Queen of Games” music video or stream the album on your favorite platform. And if you’re an artist inspired by Mona Lissa’s independent spirit, consider distributing your own music with DistroKid. It’s a simple way to get your tracks on major platforms, and you can save 7% on your membership with this link: DistroKid VIP Link. It’s a small step that could help you reach listeners worldwide while keeping more of your earnings.
Let’s Talk Music!
What do you think of Mona Lissa Chanda’s Queen of Games? Are you vibing with the retro soul sound, or is the Film Noir-inspired title track stealing your heart? Drop your thoughts in the comments—I’d love to hear your take! And if you’re digging this review, share it with your music-loving friends or check out our other artist spotlights for more hidden gems.
