Self Esteem: A Complicated Woman Review
In a bold experiment, Self Esteem, the stage name of Rebecca Lucy Taylor, has released her third album, A Complicated Woman, to critical acclaim. The album, released by Polydor on April 25, is a grand and ambitious work that features choirs and orchestras, marking a significant departure from her previous work as part of the indie duo Slow Club.
According to a review published in The Guardian, Taylor’s latest effort is a complex and often contradictory work that reflects her own self-doubt and uncertainty. The album’s sound is anthemic and stadium-ready, with songs like "69" and "Mother" showcasing Taylor’s ability to craft catchy and upbeat pop tracks.
However, as The Guardian notes, the album’s lyrics often feel opaque and confusing, with Taylor seemingly working out her feelings about ageing, drinking, and her career in real-time. The song "I Do and I Don’t Care" is a case in point, featuring a stream-of-consciousness delivery that is difficult to decipher.
Despite these criticisms, A Complicated Woman is a bold and fascinating work that showcases Taylor’s growth as an artist. As The Guardian observes, "This approach sometimes feels brave and fascinating… But sometimes it feels confusingly opaque." The album’s use of choirs and orchestras adds a sense of grandeur and drama, with songs like "The Deep Blue Okay" featuring massed vocals and swelling orchestration.
Taylor’s live performances have also been praised, with The Guardian noting that she is a "fantastic performer." It is likely that A Complicated Woman will work better in a live setting, where Taylor’s energy and charisma can shine.
In an interview with The Guardian, Taylor discussed her experiences with stardom and self-doubt, stating, "Everything I wanted was offered to me. But I felt nothing." This sense of disconnection and uncertainty is reflected in A Complicated Woman, which is an album that is both ambitious and flawed.
Overall, A Complicated Woman is a bold and experimental work that showcases Self Esteem’s growth as an artist. While it may not always succeed, the album is a testament to Taylor’s creativity and willingness to take risks. As The Guardian concludes, "A Complicated Woman is a bold experiment that you couldn’t call a failure – there are good things there, that underline how vastly improved the world of pop is for having Self Esteem in it."
In related news, Self Esteem has discussed her experiences with stardom and self-doubt in an interview with The Guardian. The album A Complicated Woman is out now on Polydor.
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