Gossip - ‘Real Power’ review
Gossip
Iconic indie-punk trio Gossip have reunited with their first album in twelve years, the explosive Real Power, celebrating “the art of creative expression and the power of chosen family in the wake of personal and collective trauma”.
The band, consisting of vocalist Beth Ditto, guitarist Nathan Howdeshell, and drummer Hannah Blilie, team up once again with acclaimed producer Rick Rubin in a blisteringly bold record that recaptures the iconic Gossip sound for a new era. Real Power is a restoration of the Gossip signature style; and while the record may not be presenting anything particularly evolutionary, it is nonetheless fabulously fun and effortlessly danceable.
The opening track ‘Act of God’ is classic Gossip at their very best. A swirling dance tune powered by Ditto’s soulful vocals alongside an energetic production that will have you ‘losing control’. The title track ‘Real Power’, inspired by the Black Lives Matter movement, is a funky and free disco song that displays an earnest and righteous fury in its slow build and confident lyricism. Gossip has never been a band to shy away from difficult topics, consistently demonstrating an acute political awareness throughout their music and performance. Real Power is no different, featuring calls for collective activism, unapologetic queer representation, and fierce body positivity. Another anthem ‘Edge of The Sun’ is a glorious disco-pop earworm in which Ditto showcases a mature dynamism in her vocals, in a tune that would otherwise have her belting at every turn.
The album does retreat into more subdued moments in tracks such as the surprising lead single ‘Crazy Again’ which is a softer and more heartfelt version of the distinguished Gossip sound. These songs fall a little short compared to the powerhouse dance-rock numbers that have come to define the band. Final tracks ‘Tough’ and ‘Peace and Quiet’ are also decidedly more toned down in what is arguably a more disappointing ending to a generally sharp and lively record.
Overall the album is a true return to form. Lovers of Gossip’s renowned hit ‘Standing In The Way Of Control’ are guaranteed to love much of what this new record has to offer. Altogether Real Power is an excellent addition to Gossip’s musical arsenal, packed with bonafide floor fillers assured to please festival crowds this summer as the band makes appearances at both Glastonbury and All Points East. Gossip proves their real power here, the power to build an esteemed reputation and maintain that legendary status over a decade down the line.
Real Power from Gossip is out now via Music For Nations and available on all good streaming platforms.
