I just 'acquired' the new MIA album and I felt obliged to tell you how fantastic it is. It seems like she's been on some kind of tour, visting the ghettos of the world, picking up sounds as she travels. A little bit of Sri Lanka here, some African rap here, some Jamaican elements here, and even some Australian Aboriginal beats. And it doesn't feel like plundering, but rather, representing and sharing with us the lives and creativity of the under-represented. There is something thrilling about hearing rapper Afrikan Boy reciting the line "You think it's tough now? Come to Africa." Maybe I'm getting a bit carried away, but it's just so unique and exciting I can't help it. It's also a great party record, as you would expect.
I was also impressed to hear that the opening lyrics of the first track are nicked from Jonathan Richman's Roadrunner, an unlikely but tremendous reference, and any excuse to listen to Roadrunner again must be welcomed.
M.I.A. - Bamboo BangerI was also impressed to hear that the opening lyrics of the first track are nicked from Jonathan Richman's Roadrunner, an unlikely but tremendous reference, and any excuse to listen to Roadrunner again must be welcomed.
Jonathan Richman - Roadrunner
Posts
1 comment:
just managed to listen to this for the first time and it's pretty awesome. she's meant to be supporting prince on some of his london shows, so fingers crossed we get her on sept 21st. i bought an album in australia in 2003 or whenever it was by the wilcannia mob, which features the original version of that track - they're basically a social club for underpriviledged aboriginal kids, who are all around 12-14. you should have a look out for that album. it's pretty excellent.
Post a Comment