April 29, 2008
Happy Robyn Day
Three years ago the blogosphere criticeratti exploded over the import-only self-titled turn-around album by former pop-princess Robyn. If that opening sentence didn't make your head explode, read on.
The disc that garnered so much attention was/is a smart collection of shiny pop, punk swagger, and intelligent beats. It overtook everything in its sonic path. It made Annie sound like a twiggy shadow. It could have been a monster smash. But it never got released here. Until now. Today.
So here we are, three years later, with a "new" release of an album that should've worn out its welcome. Happily, Robyn sounds just as fresh today as she did back them, so we're fairly confident that the disc will be gladly received -- finally -- on these shores. But this does force us to ask the question: If the disc still sounds this fresh, was it three years ahead of its time, or is it destined to be timeless? And why the hell did it take so long to get released here?
Robyn will perform at The Park West on May 7, 7:30 p.m., $15, all ages
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This album's synth pop feel doesn't hold back nor is it looking for your approval. The straight forward beats are strong and playful, yet every track seems to be asking your favorite club DJ for a remix. "Cobrastyle" kicks the album's busty beats right on to the dance floor, while "Konichiwa Bitches" shows that Robyn is not just here to recite decade old poems for another one hit wonder. Bringing Robyn back to her pop roots, "Bum like you" and "Handle Me" carry this album to a strong finish that will surely have radio's playing her music for a long to come. Whether this disc is served a la carte or squeezed through a techno blender, be prepared to hear this album all summer long.
I totally used to iron my jeans to this album when I lived in UK. Never iron jeans on a full stomach!