Paloma Faith

Nearly a decade has passed since Paloma Faith debuted with her wonderfully eccentric debut Do You Want The Truth Or Something Beautiful? At the time Paloma was viewed as a big voiced prima donna who delivered bold statemented left of centre pop. Fast forward 8 years and 3 studio albums to find Paloma as a mainstream contender and household name. Although she has never lost her quirky persona in the mix, a series of very radio friendly releases and a mentoring role on The Voice have really endeared her to a wider audience. Having taken a brief career break to have her first child, Paloma returns with album #4 - The Architect. Having already dominated the airwaves with Crybaby, is Paloma on the brink of superstar status?

The Architect once again shakes up Paloma's formula, but manages to maintain the key elements of her appeal so as not to lose the interest of her already formed and very loyal fanbase. A collection of songs that is both intensely political and personal, Paloma has declared it a social observation record, but do not be afraid as she has not got all high and mighty, but simply a little freer with insights into her own stance.

With guest appearances from Samuel L Jackson and Owen Jones, it is clear without even listening where the album's political leanings are. Having previously been most rewarded with commercial success for her sappier love songs, this is a brave move but one that pays off. Yes, there is a more overt social commentary at play, but anyone who has listened to previous Paloma releases will be aware that she has never really shied away from comment.

Although the political vs personal interplay could become the focal point of any review, it is important not to focus purely on these elements as this is the fourth album from an artist who has proven that her distinctive presence has pull. Having gone double platinum with her first three albums, can The Architect build on her own musical legacy?

Yes, it most definitely can. This may not have the theatrics of her debut, nor the direct to radio approach of her third studio album, A Perfect Contradiction, but it is an engaging journey that has far more passion that its predecessor.

Slick, glossy and well produced this is maybe not her most characterful sounding release, although her debut will always be hard to top on that front, but it is one that will stick with you and make you think. Although there are weaker moments, most notably the dull I'll Be Gentle and Warrior, which is Titanium repackaged, overall the album is full of magic moments. Crybaby is her most irresistible single to date, while WW3 has echoes of Lorde and Lana Del Ray and Surrender is one of the biggest anthems of 2017 so far.

Overall The Architect is an artistic growth from one of the UK's most dynamic artists. It may not be perfect, but it is certainly notable.