Martina Topley-Bird "The Blue God"

Abstract beat chanteuse Martina Topley-Bird returned in spring ‘08 with her eagerly awaited sophomore offering “The Blue God”. While its safe to say she’s lost nothing vocally, she’s sonically pulled a 180 on us. What’s apparent is how pop the album sounds which has everything to do with Danger Mouse infusing his 60’s retro vibes all over it. I don’t mean bad pop either, the noir-ish vibe that has been part of her vocal delivery and lyrics are still present. Remember the cinematic “Quixotic” closer “Stevie’s (Days of a gun)” with it’s looming homicidal ending? Instead of picking up where she left off she delivers a contrasting upbeat intro on what is one of the best songs on “The Blue God”- “Phoenix”. It's still brooding but there's a hint of optimism. It's a wonderful opener declaring transformation, strong will and a need to move forward. With such a strong intro I questioned if the rest album would be as good. The first single “Carnies” follows and keeps the momentum. It’s all retro noir and with most songs under three minutes it never overstays it’s welcome. Other highlights include humming and improvising of “Da Da Da Da”. “Valentine” is the only traditional ballad and easily on par with “Soul Food” from the previous release. “The Blue God” closes with more abstract numbers that are reminiscent and brilliant as her work with Tricky. "Razor Tongue" is a scathing resignation from a relationship that starts off as a whisper and then erupts into a howl. If you get a chance look up her performances from the Montreaux Jazz Festival and you’ll see that she’s evolved from mere muse for Tricky to a talented musician with a vision in her own right. If you need a little push the album is on sale at iTunes for a mere $6. (Fluke? I don’t know but it's worth nabbing before they find out.)