(Columbia)
The first album in 12 years from Beth Ditto’s US dance-punk trio feels strongly personal and political. Musically, though, it pulls its punches
Gossip – the trio made up of singer Beth Ditto, multi-instrumentalist Nathan Howdeshell and drummer Hannah Blilie – were never just a one-hit wonder. Originally released in 2006, Standing in the Way of Control, the US band’s breakout hit, always had plenty of good company: workouts honed to maximum bounce throughout Gossip’s years playing in queer punk circles. Their knack for filleting disco, soul and 1960s girl-group pop for rhythm and emotion meant that their sweaty oeuvre found a much broader audience than DIY all-ages gigs. Standing in the Way of Control ended up on the soundtrack of Channel 4’s teen drama Skins.
Nearly 20 years on, Gossip have returned after a 12-year hiatus (their last LP was in 2012). Not only that: they have almost equalled their anthem. Real Power, the title track of Gossip’s unexpected sixth album, blazes with a very similar combination of dancefloor mastery and excellent life advice as its predecessor. It’s a blast from the past that is bang on time.
