Martina Topley-Bird – 'The Blue God' (album review)
A cross between Björk, Corinne Bailey Rae and Lovefoxx from Brazilian band CSS, there is only one word to describe this little gem from Martina Topley-Bird: magical.
There could not be an opening track more intriguing, captivating and entrancing as the one on this album. There is something strangely unique about ‘Phoenix.’ A beautiful fusion of mysterious synthesisers and lulling vocals, it is sure to send shivers down your spine and make the hairs stand up on the back of your neck. In fact, hearing it creates an effect similar to that induced by spending vast amounts of time in a poppy field. It is hypnotic, almost, and will leave you pleading for more.
The tracks on ‘The Blue God’ are extremely varied; each song is different to the previous one and numerous musical genres and styles shine through the album. The elegant ballad, ‘Valentine’ (featured on MySpace) is an easy-listening track with gorgeous guitar glissandos and a stunning swing drum rhythm compared with the upbeat, happy ‘Da Da Da Da,’ which is an instant feel-good little tune.
Overall, I think that ‘The Blue God’ works so well because there is no hesitation to try new and different ideas. I don’t think it is possible to categorise this album because it is so diverse but it is definitely worth a listen. Previously nominated for the Mercury Music Prize, Martina Topley-Bird is something special. And this album proves that a million times over.
By Devon Bianchi
Release Date: 12/5/08
Label: Independiente
There could not be an opening track more intriguing, captivating and entrancing as the one on this album. There is something strangely unique about ‘Phoenix.’ A beautiful fusion of mysterious synthesisers and lulling vocals, it is sure to send shivers down your spine and make the hairs stand up on the back of your neck. In fact, hearing it creates an effect similar to that induced by spending vast amounts of time in a poppy field. It is hypnotic, almost, and will leave you pleading for more.
The tracks on ‘The Blue God’ are extremely varied; each song is different to the previous one and numerous musical genres and styles shine through the album. The elegant ballad, ‘Valentine’ (featured on MySpace) is an easy-listening track with gorgeous guitar glissandos and a stunning swing drum rhythm compared with the upbeat, happy ‘Da Da Da Da,’ which is an instant feel-good little tune.
Overall, I think that ‘The Blue God’ works so well because there is no hesitation to try new and different ideas. I don’t think it is possible to categorise this album because it is so diverse but it is definitely worth a listen. Previously nominated for the Mercury Music Prize, Martina Topley-Bird is something special. And this album proves that a million times over.
By Devon Bianchi
Release Date: 12/5/08
Label: Independiente
