Chloe Qisha Explores the Wild Highs and Messy Lows of 'Modern Romance'
Photo: Lillie Eiger
To what end will you go to find love? Emerging Malaysian alt-pop star Chloe Qisha examines that and more in her latest EP, Modern Romance. The title, inspired by the complexities of modern relationships, is a self-aware, sparkly, slightly melancholic, and downright brilliant collection that sees her examine and critique everything from dating app culture to climate anxiety.
"The Modern Romance EP is the project of my dreams. I am so proud of this body of work and so excited to play it to people when we tour in October," Qisha says. "I love each and every song so much it's insane – you know you've done something pretty cool when you suddenly realize that all you can listen to right now is… well… you. She's the sister act to my first EP, the more rambunctious, and daring younger sibling who's ready to make her mark. She's about love in the modern age, in all of her passionate and messy forms. We've only just scraped the surface, and I can't wait for the world to see what we have in store."
The opening track, "21st Century Cool Girl," doesn't just start the EP; it busts down the door and confidently takes center stage with a knowing smirk and a cheeky wink. It's a song that sparkles like a disco ball and delivers one-liners that hit close to home, especially on the hook as she croons, "I'll be your 21st century cool girl / Baby I'll forever be tragically insecurе / But if you're ready to love mе then I'm all yours." It's the type of song for people who want to be "that bitch" and makes you feel like you're in control of your story, even when things get a little chaotic.
The record's title track switches things up, swapping disco shimmer for glitchy, digital static, diving headfirst into glitch-pop territory without losing the ache of the beating heart underneath. There's a particular genius in how Qisha nails the weird energy of modern romance, asking what love even means when your DMs are always open and half-hearted detachment masks total emotional chaos. It's a dreamy, synth-laced love song for people who pretend not to care but care too much.
The closing track, "A-Game," is a testament to the EP's versatility and showcases Qisha's fiercest vocals to date. It weaves together the various themes of the EP—romantic uncertainty, self-aware humour, and pure pop pleasure—into a satisfying finale. The meticulous attention to detail in the unapologetic lyrics and razor-sharp arrangement confirms Qisha's emergence as a significant artistic force.
Following recent sold-out shows in London, Manchester, Amsterdam, and Paris, including a performance at London's OMEARA, Qisha will embark on her first UK and European tour this October. This tour will include the largest headline show to date at London's Village Underground.
Listen to Modern Romance below:
