If you’ve been paying attention, you’d know that MKIA has an affinity for pop music. It’s no surprise – I grew up idolizing Madonna and, thanks to Lauren’s influence, have come to love the likes of Britney and Gaga. But our post today is about a lesser known and formerly less poppy musician, Sia. Taking a break from her more somber state of mind, “We Are Born” is all 80′s pop influence. And while I’ve been listening to Sia’s music for years, I would not have been so quick to mention it on MKIA due to its mostly melancholy demeanor. That is no longer the case, as this album does a great job at rounding out her lineup while still showcasing her intoxicating voice. Sia gives some credit for the new sound to her relationship with DJ JD Sampson of Le Tigre as well as her childhood icons, Cyndi Lauper and Madonna.
These references are obvious throughout the album. She even covers Madonna’s “Oh Father”, which cannot replace the original but is interesting nonetheless. The beats, unique and not sampled, stand up to Sia’s strong, melodic vocals and the glorious combination sets her apart from her contemporaries. My favorite tracks are (no surprise here) the most danceable: “The Fight”, “Clap Your Hands“, “You’ve Changed”, and “Bring Night”. There is one ballad, however, that stands out as a testament to Sia’s original strengths and her last album, “Some People Have Real Problems”. More Fiona Apple than Madonna, “Be Good to Me” is a lingering, sultry adventure that should not be missed. I will no doubt be belting it out in the shower sometime soon.
Listen at myspace.com/siamusic and download at itunes.com/sia.
xoxo Melina
