Melanie C, the artist formerly known as Sporty Spice, returns with her ninth solo album, Sweat, a celebratory dance record inspired by her experiences as a DJ in the nightclubs of Ibiza. The album, released under Virgin Records, has earned a 4/5 star rating.
A Dance-Focused Turn
The trend of female singers embracing dance music has been prominent this spring, with artists like Robyn, Arlo Parks, and Jessie Ware releasing club-inspired albums. Madonna is also set to release a new dance album, Confessions II, on July 3. Melanie C's Sweat fits perfectly into this movement, offering a funky and energetic collection of tracks.
Track Highlights
The title track, Sweat, is a funky dance number that could double as a fitness workout, with lyrics like 'Keep your eyes on me, speed it up slowly, get your heart pumping.' The album sleeve features the 52-year-old singer in a bodysuit and weight-lifting belt, emphasizing the gym-inspired theme.
Chisholm has cited Diana Ross and Madonna as inspirations. Diana Ross's 1982 single Work That Body is sampled on the title track, while the shimmering Drum Machine recalls Madonna's Ray Of Light. 'There's a drum machine, and it's playing in my heart,' sings Chisholm.
Empowerment and Intimacy
The album is peppered with proclamations of self-worth, echoing the Spice Girls' 'girl power' message. On Attitude, Chisholm declares herself 'sassy, trashy, cool and confident.' Undefeated Champion is an ode to positivity, and her singing throughout is bright and tuneful, reminding listeners that she was always the strongest singer in the Spice Girls.
While the record values energy over emotional punch, there are flashes of intimacy. One Track Mind is the sole ballad, but Emotional Memory tells a tale of falling in love again after heartache. Cashmere sees Chisholm vowing to put her phone 'on aeroplane mode' when alone with her new lover.
Collaborations and DJ Skills
Chisholm keeps things fresh by working with younger collaborators, including Welsh singer Violet Skies, BRIT-nominated Londoner Rose Gray, and electronic musician Theo Hutchcraft of Hurts. The real achievement is how she combines her vocal talent with skills from her DJ work.
Melanie C starts a tour on October 20 at Barrowland Ballroom in Glasgow.
Other New Releases
Noah Kahan: The Great Divide (Mercury)
Noah Kahan reflects on his past and the perils of fame on this meticulously crafted sequel to Stick Season. All Them Horses offers a jaded take on stardom, while Taylor Swift's producer Aaron Dessner brings a hazy feel to ballads Downfall and End Of August. Kahan embraces heartland rock with vigour, but the 77-minute album is ultimately an endurance test. Star rating: 2/5.
The Black Keys: Peaches! (Easy Eye Sound)
Dan Auerbach and Patrick Carney return to their roots on this gritty covers collection inspired by hill country blues. They attack George Thorogood's You Got To Lose with Led Zeppelin-like heaviness and bring swagger to Willie Griffin's Where There's Smoke, There's Fire. Star rating: 3/5.
