Alison Goldfrapp evokes the spirit of Britt Ekland in ‘The Wickerman’ in her band’s fourth album, Seventh Tree.
After the glam trappings of the last outing, ‘Supernature’, Goldfrapp and her musical partner Will Gregory hark back to the mood on their debut album ‘Felt Mountain’.
The record awash with strings and choirs takes on a psychedelic folk feel as Goldfrapp’s West Country burr sets the tone beautifully.
With images of owls and glamorous maidens the artwork continues the theme of an old pagan England.
The lyrics, however, are timeless as Goldfrapp looks for, is obsessed by and finally betrayed by love.
So much so that she ends up in A&E – in the song of the same name – after taking some pills.
A suicide attempt has never sounded so romantic.
That is the joy of Goldfrapp as they and their music inhabit a complex world.
Sad songs are followed by joyous romps such as ‘Caravan Girl’ and ‘Happiness’ as the band refuses to rest on its laurels.
Two years ago Alison Goldfrapp was dressed as a horse and whipping her audience into a disco frenzy while now she’s dancing around a maypole. .
Seventh Tree is the ideal album to fill the cold nights until May Day arrives.Seventh Tree is available on Mute Recordings £9.99.