Politi-pop
The Architect is the fourth album by English singer Paloma Faith. The album was released on November 17th and has already been certified Silver in the U.K., and debuted at number one on the UK Albums Chart. It’s no surprise she was a judge on The Voice UK; Faith’s voice is a combination of Lana Del Rey’s hearty alto and Misterwives’ front-woman, Mandy Lee’s timbre.
The album sets the tone with an inspiring introduction “Evolution” narrated by Samuel L. Jackson: “Do something, say something, believe in something. But most of all, know you can change things.” Owen Jones, a left-leaning commentator, provides the interlude “Politics of Hope.” A second interlude comes near the end of the album and features commentary from Faith’s backup singers who feel like “Pawns.”
“Guilty” was written about the Brexit vote. Faith’s grave alto is sultry on the verses, brought to the next level by cinematic violins to create an R&B soul hit. The first single, “Crybaby,” features vocals more straightlaced in a whimsical indie-pop package and disco chorus. Faith belts the Hot AC ballad “Warrior” penned by Sia, complete with cinematic strings and choir backing. “Still Around” is a modern R&B anthem: “I don’t know why I’ve given you the power / to lift me up so high then drop me down.” ‘60s doo-wop makes for a twinkling pop bop on “Lost and Lonely.”
Faith did not set out to make an album about love, she wanted The Architect to be a “social observation.” As it tends to, love made the cut anyway. Faith duets with John Legend for “I’ll Be Gentle.” They swap verses and sing the chorus in unison: “I’ll be there to hold you / there’s nothing that I won’t do / ‘cause we all need a little kindness / all this cruelty is so mindless.” A reflection on past relationships, “Kings and Queens” is an album highlight.
Four extra songs can be found on the Deluxe version of the album. Faith wants harmony on “Power to the Peaceful.” She sings, “What kind of world is this? Living in a nightmare when it could be a kiss?” The singer reaches her higher register on “My Body,” which has a cool effect layered over late ‘80s pop production. Unfortunately, spelling out ‘body’ near the end came across more cheesy than cute. The deluxe album ends with “Price of Fame” for some serious Amy Winehouse flashbacks.
The Architect has a political conscience that is appreciated but mostly executed through interlude commentary. The 19-track deluxe album has some dry moments, but most tracks have some element — whether vocally, lyrically or instrumentally — that will keep listeners interested.
Leave a Comment