Dua Lipa: Radical Optimism review – ‘psychedelic pop-infused’? Pull the other one!

At the beginning of the year, Dua Lipa conducted an extensive interview for a magazine to promote her upcoming third album. Although the interview wasn't particularly captivating, Dua Lipa cleverly chose not to share her private life or her thoughts on any controversial topics in a world where people are always sharing too much and online outrage is commonplace. However, one interesting detail emerged from the interview - Dua Lipa mentioned that her album would be a combination of psychedelic pop and UK rave culture, influenced by music legends such as Primal Scream and Massive Attack. She also added that the album would be inspired by the bold and carefree attitudes of bands like Oasis and Blur.

Wow, that all sounds really interesting. It would definitely be a big change from the disco-house music on Dua Lipa's 2020 album "Future Nostalgia". But it also seems like it would fit in with the current trend of 90s revivalism. A lot of people are feeling nostalgic for the pre-9/11 era, and it's showing up in pop culture everywhere. This article talks about how even Britpop is making a comeback. By exploring some of the not-so-mainstream corners of 90s music, Dua Lipa might have unwittingly created an album that's just as relevant and trendy as her last one, which became the perfect soundtrack for all those stay-at-home dance parties during the pandemic.

So, it turns out that Radical Optimism doesn't quite match up to what was promised. Despite being touted as a psychedelic pop tribute to UK rave culture, it actually sounds more like something you'd expect from Dua Lipa. The only real surprise is hearing the singer rap in Received Pronunciation on the opening track, End of an Era. If you were hoping for some nods to pop's past, you'd be better off exploring Abba's music, as their influence can be heard in the melodies of These Walls and Falling Forever, as well as the cascading piano line in Training Season. Another more recent point of comparison could be Caroline Polachek's Desire, I Want to Turn into You, which was co-produced by Danny A Harle - with End of an Era capturing some of the summery, flamenco-inspired ambiance of that album's Sunset, while French Exit adds a layer of gloss to Bunny Is a Rider's chattering rhythms.

It seems that what Dua Lipa claims about her music is quite different from what we actually hear. Perhaps we are trying to figure out what she meant. Could it be that the use of Kevin Parker, who is known for producing psychedelic alternative rock with Tame Impala in the past, but now produces pop hits with Lady Gaga and the Weeknd, is what she meant? Or maybe the presence of an acoustic guitar and the occasional use of electric slide in tracks like These Walls is a nod to Britpop?

Rather than focusing on what the album lacks, it's better to enjoy what it has to offer. The album, titled Radical Optimism, was even sent out to journalists under the pseudonym Candy Floss, indicating its upbeat and fun energy. Although it may not have an obvious hit single like Physical or New Rules, it still has catchy hooks that stay with you, like with Houdini and Illusion. The production is subtle, but exciting, with the lower end providing plenty of sonic excitement. Maria deals with love rivalry similar to Jolene, while Happy for You has passive-aggressive undertones like Someone Like You. Some of the lyrics may seem like filler material, but the album's overall optimistic tone shines through.

Dua Lipa is a pop star who doesn't reveal much of herself, which fits her image. She's like a work of art where fans can imagine what they want onto her. Some writers say she's like a caring older sister, a strong fighter or a smart businesswoman. Being a blank slate has worked for her, but in the long run, it's not a strong strategy. Her latest album, Radical Optimism, doesn't have a unique personality compared to other artists. While the album is well-made and appealing to many, it's not deep. The album title's adjective doesn't match the content.

"Alexis' Listening Journey"

Today, we will discuss the new hit song by Nilüfer Yanya called "Like I Say (I Runaway)." This track has been receiving a lot of attention lately, and for good reason. Nilüfer Yanya has created a masterpiece with this song. The lyrics are powerful and relatable, and the beat is infectious. It's no wonder that "Like I Say (I Runaway)" has become so popular. If you haven't already heard it, we highly recommend giving it a listen. You won't regret it!

I must say that the tune of Like I Say is incredibly catchy, although its sound has a pleasingly raw and rugged quality. It's pop music that has a little grime to it, contrasting nicely with the polished aesthetic of today's world.