Glimmer and Grit: Gossip’s ‘Real Power’ Between Evolution and Identity
Gossip’s Real Power marks a vibrant return after a decade-long silence, embodying a tapestry of summer pop anthems and disco tunes that both dazzle and disappoint. The album, spanning 11 tracks, oscillates between the electric energy of dance floors and the intimate whispers of reflective ballads. Yet, despite its attempts at innovation—evidenced by a novel, Hawaiian-inspired slide guitar on “Turn the Card Slowly”—the album at times feels anchored in the band’s past, a retread rather than a reinvention.
Beth Ditto’s voice, as always, remains the band’s most powerful instrument. Her range, from soul-stirring belts to tender croons, shines across the album, particularly on tracks like “Tell Me Something,” which could well become an enduring favorite. However, Real Power ventures into safer, more polished territories, trading the raw punk-disco edge of their earlier work for a sheen that, while enjoyable, might leave long-time fans craving the grittier sound of Gossip’s yesteryears.
The album does triumph in its unabashed fun and danceability, crafting an homage to the ’80s with a modern twist that will undoubtedly pull listeners to their feet. The influence of legendary producer Rick Rubin is palpable, lending a cohesion that elevates the work. Yet, this comes at the cost of the album’s concluding tracks, which, despite their quality, seem to lose the momentum built by their predecessors, culminating in an ending that, while nice, feels somewhat anticlimactic.
The thematic focus on growth, resilience, and political awareness, particularly in tracks inspired by movements like Black Lives Matter, demonstrates that Gossip has not lost their edge in lyrics and message. Yet, the music’s delivery packages these themes in a more accessible, less confrontational sound.
Real Power is a lot of fun and showcases the band’s undoubted talents and unique voice in the music industry. However, it might leave some listeners wondering what could have been if Gossip had dared to venture further from their established sound. In the end, Real Power is a testament to Gossip’s enduring appeal, a celebration of their return, but also a reminder of the complex balance between evolution and identity in music.
