La Roux – Trouble In Paradise

Re-establishes Elly Jackson as one of Britain’s premier pop talents...

Released five years ago, La Roux’s eponymous debut album (review) was a cannon blast of electro-pop bluster.

The duo’s wild synths and battering beats were wrapped in dystopian tones, with Ellie Jackson’s singular vocal stylings – all neon lights and leather jackets – adding an extra layer of resolve to the arrangements.

Having coped with Ben Langmaid’s departure from the group, Jackson’s ‘Trouble In Paradise’ comeback is an altogether brighter piece.

Slick opener ‘Uptight Downtown’ stacks hooks on hooks, while the sun-kissed ‘Tropical Chancer’ offers some infectious Caribbean bounce.

‘Let Me Down Gently’’s (video below) tech noir is a welcome return to a previous ethos, but this polished set is pure aural candy from front-to-back and firmly re-establishes Jackson as one of Britain’s premier pop talents.

9/10

Words: Dean Van Nguyen

– – –

– – –

Buy Clash Magazine

Get Clash on your mobile, for free: iPhone / Android

-
Join the Clash mailing list for up to the minute music, fashion and film news.