Even before
knowledge of the emotionally stirring backstory of “Chemicals,” there is a strong
draw to the release from Giant Hand. The verses of the song have a melodic
bounce that is discarded when the vocals are slowed and opened to reverb, which
first occurs with the phrase “Slow me down.” Does the reverb processing and slowed pace indicate the influences of chemicals? The frame of mind is certainly different – at 1:02,
the bounce-characterized verse states “Just keep on keeping on, and I’ll be
okay,” which leads to the more dream-like, but less upbeat, statement “Well,
I’m not okay.” Similar to other well-crafted songs, “Chemicals” allows personalized
interpretations as to the meaning.
Still,
knowledge of the explanation of the story behind “Chemicals” enhances its poignancy.
Giant Hand is the performance name of Kirk Ramsay, who battles chronic physical
pain from internal quirks, each year getting worse. Ramsay was originally not
supposed to live past the age of three. He wrote “Chemicals” as a representation
of the attempt to balance the internal and external risks around him while
searching for a way to just be at peace in the moment.
“Chemicals”
is a feature from an upcoming EP, “Oh, Hello Apocalypse!,” which is scheduled
for release on April 11, 2025. The EP from the Canada-based (Toronto, Ontario) artist
has been described as “an unflinching look at existential dread wrapped in a
full-blown drone-gospel, indie-rock orchestra, crafted in the shadow of a world
on the brink.” “Oh, Hello Apocalypse!” grapples with the weight of the
world’s impending collapse as well as the weight of Ramsay’s health.
In the past, Ramsay
has shared stages with Daniel Johnston, Chad VanGaalen, Handsome Furs, and Sam
Amidon.
“Chemicals”
by Giant Hand
