Vancouver’s Chè Aimee Dorval makes a striking return with “Joyride”, her first single since 2023’s The Crowned, weaving late-night trip-hop, dreamy art-pop, and supple electronica into a sleek, boundary-pushing statement. Channeling Goldfrapp’s glamorous grit, Bonobo’s organic grooves, and Lana Del Rey’s cinematic melancholy, Dorval crafts a hypnotic ode to self-possession—one that refuses to apologize for taking up space.
From the first smoldering synth pulse, “Joyride” immerses listeners in a smoky, slow-burn soundscape, with Dorval’s velvet-and-whiskey vocals delivering lyrics that reject toxic cycles—whether personal or geopolitical (“inspired by the Canada/U.S. relationship,” she notes). The production shimmers and sways, balancing trip-hop’s nocturnal cool with art-pop’s textural daring, while Dorval’s voice—both vulnerable and unshakable—anchors every moment.
The accompanying video, starring dancer Joi Of Dance, amplifies the song’s defiant energy. Joi’s feral, fluid movements—originally choreographed for an unreleased The Crowned visual—embody the track’s thesis: reclaiming power without explanation. Dorval’s decision to finally showcase this performance feels kismet, as Joi’s raw physicality mirrors the song’s emotional catharsis.
Says Che: “Joi’s dancing is pure power and soul—it embodies everything I’ve always tried to convey through my music. ‘Joyride’ is about reclaiming your power, embracing who you are, and honouring your needs without compromise. Collaborating with her on this felt like a perfect fit. Joi created this routine for a track from my last album, The Crowned, but because of constraints, we never got around to making the video. I’ve always felt a bit disappointed that such a powerful piece of art went unused. When it came time to plan the ‘Joyride’ video, it was clear that her performance was meant to bring the song’s story to life.”
Chè Aimee Dorval’s ‘Joyride’ is not just a return; it’s a bold statement of self-possession and artistic evolution. With its seamless blend of late-night trip-hop and dreamy art-pop, Dorval invites listeners into a smoky soundscape where vulnerability meets strength.
