Diamond Thug’s Chantel Van T is back, offering a renewed interpretation of her trusted indie-folk sound under the new moniker meelu with debut single “Slowburner”.
Blending acoustic storytelling with a surprising new touch — UK drum and bass — “Slowburner” introduces meelu’s signature sound, and it’s full of emotion that you can move to.
The track pulses with poetic lyricism, twangy folk guitars and a relentless backbeat, transforming the pain of mistimed connection into something vibrant and danceable.
Having spent some time living in the UK, Chantel now draws influence from their underground drum and bass scene, as she flips her trademark heartbreak into a bold new self-assured sound.
True to Chantel’s DIY spirit, the accompanying music video was made with no crew and no glam — just a backpack and a camera. Shot in one day in the mountains while camping, the video was created by Chantel and her brother, hiking between takes, swimming in rivers and dodging baboons. The result is visceral, spontaneous and sacred.
meelu’s sound is interesting because it has this distinct Diamond Thug familiarity — perhaps a token of Chantel’s unmistakable voice — yet there’s also something entirely new here. Pop-sensibilities paired with heartwarming indie-rock. Think Julia Jacklin meets Arcade Fire. Pretty awesome, right?
