The music world is a fickle beast, and even the most established artists face the challenge of staying relevant. This year, three notable figures – Manu Chao, Jamie xx, and Katy Perry – have released new albums, each hoping to recapture their former glory.
Manu Chao, the charismatic frontman of the band Mano Negra, has returned with ‘Viva Tu’ after a 17-year hiatus. His new album reflects his worldly travels, weaving together Latin rhythms, Caribbean grooves, and Western folk music. While the energy of his earlier works might be slightly toned down, ‘Viva Tu’ offers a comforting warmth and a focus on the everyday lives of ordinary people. Tracks like ‘La Couleur du Temps’ and the poignant ‘Tu Te Vas’ (featuring French rapper Laeti) showcase his ability to craft soulful and relatable melodies. Although some might find the familiar sounds repetitive, ‘Viva Tu’ is a welcome return for those who appreciate Chao’s signature vibe.
Jamie xx, known for his groundbreaking debut ‘In Colour’, has finally released his long-awaited follow-up, ‘In Waves’. This time, he invites listeners onto a kaleidoscopic dance floor filled with joyous energy. The album seamlessly blends house, UK garage, drum and bass, and experimental sounds, creating a sonic journey that’s best experienced on a massive festival sound system. Highlights include the infectious ‘Waited All Night’, featuring his xx bandmates Romy and Oliver Sim, and the hypnotic ‘All You Children’, a collaboration with The Avalanches. While not every track hits the mark, ‘In Waves’ ultimately delivers a rewarding and electrifying listening experience.
Katy Perry’s comeback with ‘143’ has been less successful. The album arrives after the critical and commercial flop of ‘Smile’ in 2020, and the lead singles have failed to generate excitement. ‘143’ is plagued by bland Eurodance pop tracks and uninspired lyrics that lack the infectious energy of her earlier work. Even the presence of collaborators like Doechii and 21 Savage fails to lift the album’s lackluster spirit. Although there are a few semi-decent tracks, ‘143’ ultimately falls short of expectations.
While all three artists have embarked on their own journeys of reinvention, the results are mixed. Manu Chao delivers a familiar but soothing soundscape, Jamie xx offers a vibrant and captivating dance floor experience, and Katy Perry, unfortunately, falls flat with an uninspired and forgettable album. Only time will tell if these attempts at a comeback will lead to lasting success.
