Lady Gaga returned to her pop roots on 'Chromatica' at a time when nobody can get together on a dance floor. Somehow, it still feels right. Here's our review
When the lyrics “All I ever wanted was love” bubble up on lead single, “Stupid Love,” it sounds like a fresh revelation. When she declares “I’m still something if I don’t got a man,” on the single-ladies anthem “Free Woman,” it’s bold. And when she serenely tells herself “I’m not perfect yet, but I’ll keep trying” on “1000 Doves,” it’s like a breakthrough.
At this point in her career, Gaga knows her signature moves, and she and her producers — a who’s who of pop and EDM luminaries, including BloodPop, Axwell, Max Martin, and even Skrillex — introduce new hooks about every other second, making for a fun and satisfying listen throughout.
She’s at her best, though, when taking musical risks, like on the New Wave-y “911,” which splits the difference between the Buggles and Kraftwerk, filtered through Gaga’s kaleidoscope, and on her duet with Elton John, “Sine From Above,” which has enough drama and funky synths to make it prog-pop. The two singers’ voices blend so beautifully, as they sing about acoustical physics , that it could prompt a spike in sales of oscilloscopes.
But on the other hand, as is often the case with Gaga, she stumbles when she gets too conceptual. “Plastic Doll,” a fantasy in which she uses a Barbie as a metaphor for her fragility in love , feels like too much of a stretch compared with the rest of the record’s more real-life personal epiphanies, and the closing track, “Babylon,” with its regrettable lyrics about spilling the tea with your friends, and the near-plagiaristic “Vogue” rap , deserves an Old Testament fate.
United States Latest News, United States Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Lady Gaga, Rosalia & More: What's Your Fave New Music?The forecast for this week&39;s weather involves heavy showers from Lady Gaga&39;s sixth album Chromatica, fire from Rosalía and Travis Scott&39;s &34;TKN&34; joint and clear skies for Kygo&39;s Golden Hour LP.
Read more »
Lady Gaga Criticizes Donald Trump's Response to George Floyd's Death'We have known he is a fool, and a racist, since he took office.'
Read more »
Lady Gaga Says 'Everyday People in America Are Racist' in New Instagram Statement
Read more »
Lady Gaga Shares Inspiring Message as Tensions Build After George Floyd's DeathAs tensions between protestors and law enforcement build in the wake of George Floyd&39;s death, Lady Gaga is offering some words of encouragement to those who remain angry and frustrated.
Read more »
Lady Gaga: George Floyd's Death 'Is an Epic Tragedy That Defines Our Country'“[Trump] is fueling a system that is already rooted in racism, and racist activity, and we can all see what is happening. It’s time for a change”
Read more »
Lady Gaga Calls Trump 'Racist' 'Fool' Offering 'Ignorance' and 'Prejudice' in Wake of George Floyd KillingThe 'Chromatica' artist says the president offers nothing but 'ignorance' and 'prejudice' in lengthy Instagram diatribe expressing outrage and calling for change.
Read more »