The Bottom Line
It looks like Lady GaGa won't have much trouble keeping the "Just Dance" party going on her next single. That synth heavy electro feel is back, and GaGa has another brief breakdown to try and keep things interesting throughout. She is undoubtedly a new star, but "Poker Face" is unlikely to be an enduring track.
Pros
- Incessantly catchy
- Expansive club sound
Cons
- Is it more than "Just Dance" Part 2?
Description
- Written by Lady GaGa and RedOne
- Produced by RedOne
- Released December 2008 by Interscope
Guide Review - Lady GaGa - "Poker Face"
The electro pop synths that kick off "Poker Face" unmistakably signal that this is Lady GaGa's follow up to her #1 smash "Just Dance." This time around the sound is a bit darker, but, particularly on the chorus, her clear vocals and pop hook make the song accessible to all. GaGa's debt to electro-pop duo Goldfrapp is even more obvious here.
Lyrically, "Poker Face" is all sexual innuendo and tease. We don't look to Lady GaGa's music for enlightenment. Thus far it's a world of parties, sex and fun.
Lady GaGa's late 2008 emergence into the pop spotlight has brought a bit of the spirit of underground clubs into the mainstream. "Poker Face" works well on pop radio, but with slight mixing alterations it would be equally at home in a dark, sweaty, late night party atmosphere. She has refreshed the pop world in the US and UK at one of the slowest times of the year. "Poker Face" keeps the motors humming as everyone waits for the next step forward from Lady GaGa.
