Those who first became familiar with Australian singer Sia through the song "Breathe Me" that served as the accompaniment for the finale of the acclaimed HBO TV series Six Feet Under will be pleased by this new full-length album. She expands on her languid, sophisticated pop style by adding a quirky note here and there, but it is her world-weary voice that is most arresting. It may not be a major pop breakthrough in the US, but pop fans looking for some resonant depth should take a close look at Some People Have REAL Problems.
Defining Adult Pop
Finely nuanced arrangements anchored by delicate guitars, a foundation of piano, and shimmering strings surrounding Sia's aching, longing vocals present a cultured sound that could easily define what adult pop should be. Listening closely, the words and sounds of these songs strike close to the heart. However, the delicately balanced recordings can just as easily provide stellar, mellow background music for everyday life. If you own this album, you are likely to find yourself sneaking these songs into mixtape after mixtape until they resonate like old friends.
A Few Surprises Add Spice
Lest you think that this album is all just a narcotic haze of grown-up pop, there are surprises that add spice. "The Girl You Lost to Cocaine" is an uptempo escape from a lover who is no longer Sia's problem. "Academia" is a clever, sprightly, minamlist tune featuring background vocals from Beck, and the album closes with the danceably funky "Buttons."
Top Tracks on Some People Have REAL Problems
- Lentil
- Academia
- I Go to Sleep
- Buttons
A Warm Surprise In the Slowest Musical Season of the Year
January is traditionally the slowest month of the year for significant new pop releases. Consequently, Some People Have REAL Problems comes as an engaging, inviting surprise for music fans looking for something new. Sia's voice will warm up any winter evening. Give this album a chance. You'll want to hear it again.
