London duo Goldfrapp’s latest single ‘Believer’ is an honest effort as far as bright and buzzy electropop goes. But new album ‘Head First’ was clearly produced with ‘sales first’ in mind.
No one would argue that it’s a problem unique to the decade. Yet established artists face a challenge in the current climate to retain creative autonomy and at the same time ensure the men in suits are still smiling come the end of the financial year.
In this respect, the extent to which Goldfrapp chose to proceed down the trendy 80s-synthpop route, or came under pressure to do so from market forces, is worthy of discussion. Nevertheless, ‘Believer’ is one of the highlights of their by and large decent fifth LP. It certainly wouldn’t kill a Ladyhawke fan to check it out on the Walkman.
Release Date 06/09/2010 (Mute)
David Stedman has followed the Manchester music scene with keen interest since arriving in the city over ten years ago. A Shropshire native, he has a particular fondness for smaller live venues. He is never happier than when listening to acts that make use of a guitar or keyboard in some way.
