Goldfrapp: 'Head First'

Goldfrapp had three options available to them after releasing their fourth album ’Seventh Tree’. They could have continued on the same path of this down tempo, ambient-folk inspired album; verged off onto yet another new path; or do a U-turn and return to the dance floor which gave them such prominence on the fantastic album ‘Supernature’. For their fifth offering, Goldfrapp decided on the latter path, proving they couldn’t stay away from the dance floor for too long.

This was no surprise as this is what made them so popular in the first instance. Similarly, ‘Seventh Tree’, however brilliant it may be, was such an about turn that it’s hard to see how they didn’t alienate a large portion of their fan base with such an artistic change in direction.

‘Head First’ may very well be a dance album, but the sound is certainly different from its predecessors. Whereas before they dabbled with glam rock on ‘Black Cherry’ and electronic dance on ‘Supernature’, ‘Head First’ is an all out pure 1980’s pop affair. It comes equipped with shoulder pads, sequined leggings, and big perms all heading towards you on roller skates in the vein of Cliff Richard Wired for Sound era. The synths are out in force accompanied by disconnected melodies and dramatic key shifts. We are firmly in 1980s territory.

Not only are we dealing with a 1980s album in sound but also in length and structure. Clocking in at just over 38 minutes and starting off with three huge singles ‘Rocket’ ‘Believe’ and ‘Alive’ harks back to great albums such as Dire Strait’s ‘Bothers in Arms’. This album is a firm example of quality over quantity. Yet again, the majority of the production falls to Will Gregory, who produces the vital Goldfrapp sound. However from listening one would be forgiven for thinking Giorgio Moroder, ELO and ABBA raided the studios here. The production is as glossy as the front cover of Vogue magazine.

When all this is combined with Alison’s voice, which remains as stunning as ever, the result is nothing short of perfection. With her gentle ethereal voice ebbing and flowing over you in waves, it’s hard not to be transfixed by such beauty and taken along for the ride. The lyrics will win no prizes for being deep and meaningful; it’s an all out pop affair with simple couplets and matters of the heart.

The driving leading track ‘Rocket’ with its minor key verse and massive chorus; and the succeeding turbo charged ‘Believer’ are as infectious as anything I’ve heard and up there with the best Golfrapp have ever produced. ‘Alive’ is similarly catchy but is nothing compared to the amazing ‘Dreaming’ which channels some form of downbeat techno to stunning effects. It is not until halfway through when the ballads enter and a more experimental vocal element is included in ‘Voicething’ and ‘Hunt’. However we are treated to one more up-tempo number before the end with ‘I Wanna Life’ which feels as though Ace of Base have returned to making music.

If there legacy was in any doubt before this album then Head First consolidates Goldfrapp’s position as one of the best British duos of the early 21t century. It will disappoint and alienate some fans just as ‘Seventh Tree’ did. Goldfrapp have the confidence to abandon a sound that works and venture into new territory. Come out of the forest, disrobe from the pagan attire and head to the back of the wardrobe for the lycra and head to the nearest club. Goldfrapp are back and as good as ever!