Sophie Ellis-Bextor’s startling transformation from well-dressed pop poppet to mistress of imperious doom on 2014’s Wanderlust didn’t quite receive the acclaim it deserved.
For the follow-up, again alongside the ever-sympathetic Ed Harcourt, she’s merged both strands of her career: ice-cold vocals towering over adult themes and a massive dance beat. It could be seen as a retreat, but in fact it’s an enhancement
The dance aspects are deployed with subtlety, adding propulsion to Wild Forever and My Puppet Heart without sacrificing their craft or intelligence. The standout, Hush Little Voice, bristles with a mournful mariachi undertow, Unrequited’s pain is enhanced by delicate strings and Greek chorus backing vocals, while there’s a real thump to Death of Love and the exquisite Cassandra.
She’s on quite a roll.
(Red Essential)