Album Review: Intuition

Christabel is a neurodiverse artist from Tāmaki Makaurau, now based in downtown Los Angeles. She first burst onto the scene in early 2021 after winning Popstars NZ, the reality TV competition. Since then, she has continued to refine and work on her craft – writing songs that are as beautiful and haunting as they are raw and honest. Her music delves into inner turmoil, global issues, and the strength needed to overcome challenges, inviting listeners into a space that feels both vulnerable and relatable.

Her new album, Intuition, feels deeply emotional and raw. As I read through the pitch deck, it became very clear that it is exactly that. The album is raw and honest, with beautiful arrangements. It really feels like every decision on the record was well thought out and purposeful. The sound is warm and draws you in without ever losing its edge. From the opening track, Shame Is A Colour, Christabel opens the door of vulnerability and shows the listener this is going to be an honest and real record. The song’s haunting melody and layered arrangement make it one of the standout moments on the record – the kind of track you return to again and again. I especially enjoyed listening to this one with headphones; the mix was beautiful and subversive.

Good Man is another gem – a heartfelt reflection on acceptance, trust, and love that embraces flaws and acknowledges the work of healing from past trauma. It again shows Christabel’s willingness to connect and be open with her audience. Meanwhile, After The War stands out as one of the most powerful and urgent songs on the album – and a personal favourite of mine. Tackling the conflict in Israel and Palestine, it serves as a moving commentary on humanity, borders, and shared suffering. With lines like “the same morning follows every night after the war, the same blood runs in every hand after the war,” Christabel captures the pain and pointlessness of war and how no one really wins. It is an eerie and poignant track that’s lyrics take you on a journey.

Intuition is a beautiful record that celebrates what can be discovered when you lean into the depths of your emotion. Its ten tracks take you on a journey: at times it is filled with melancholy and emotion, and at other times it feels optimistic and hopeful.

Verdict:
This was my first time listening to Christabel, and it would be easy to mistake her for a very accomplished artist. Intuition is a record that will move you emotionally. Its arrangements are delicate, beautiful, and well thought out. Her voice is raw and real; you can feel every bit of emotion when you listen to the tracks. I get the feeling Christabel is a name we will be seeing more often in the future.