I know what you mean. From a technical or analysing point of view, Overdrive would require more "energy" or "load" in terms of breath-pressure, adduction etc. BUT as to what something "feels" like is very different. I believe it has to do with what you are used to do. In my case, Overdrive is the easiest mode....even though Curbing on the "paper" should be easier in regards to "stressful" or "physical energy".
Puissance,
It sounds like you want Overdrive on those words...mainly the EH vowel...right?
(An example of Overdrive)
http://www.box.net/shared/tupfjvr1kx