Gossip – the trio made up of singer Beth Ditto, multi-instrumentalist Nathan Howdeshell and drummer Hannah Blilie – were never just a one-hit wonder. Originally released in 2006, Standing in the Way of Control, the US band’s breakout hit, always had plenty of good company: workouts honed to maximum bounce throughout Gossip’s years playing in queer punk circles. Their knack for filleting disco, soul and 1960s girl-group pop for rhythm and emotion meant that their sweaty oeuvre found a much broader audience than DIY all-ages gigs. Standing in the Way of Control ended up on the soundtrack of Channel 4’s teen drama Skins.
After a break of 12 years, Gossip has made a comeback nearly 20 years later (their previous album was released in 2012). What’s more, they have nearly surpassed their iconic song. “Real Power,” the lead track of Gossip’s surprising sixth album, exudes the same blend of dancefloor expertise and valuable life guidance as its forerunner. It’s a nostalgic thrill that couldn’t have come at a better time.
SITWOC was created as a reaction to a proposed US law that aimed to restrict same-sex marriage rights, although it was ultimately not passed. Real Power, on the other hand, was inspired by the Black Lives Matter demonstrations that took place in Ditto’s adopted city of Portland, Oregon. In the song’s lyrics, Ditto draws a connection between the solidarity shown by those willing to risk their health (in the midst of the 2020 pandemic) to protest against police racism, and the freedom and joy found on the dancefloor, as well as love that is fully aware and empowered. The title of both the song and album is also a nod to The Stooges’ seminal punk song, “Raw Power”.
The resurgence of Gossip has been natural. Ditto intended to create a new solo album with famous producer Rick Rubin, but ended up bringing in Howdeshell and, later, Blilie, whose contributions to Gossip’s sound cannot be overlooked.
However, Gossip’s return holds a deeper unexpectedness. In 2023, there were 75 new legislations approved that were deemed harmful to the LGBTQ+ community by the American Civil Liberties Union. The ACLU is currently reviewing 479 more bills in the United States, with most not expected to pass. As stated by the director of Loyola Marymount University’s LGBTQ politics research initiative, some of these bills may just be for show in an election year. However, as pioneers for LGBTQ+ visibility and promoting joy despite facing hatred, Gossip seems to fit right in with the current state of 2024. This year brings both progress, such as a surge of openly queer and trans performers in pop, and new threats.
The group’s latest album, however, focuses more on personal experiences rather than political issues. Real Power consists of 11 tracks that mainly revolve around the theme of love – its hardships and eventual rediscovery. The members of Gossip went through a lot after their official split in 2016. Ditto and Howdeshell lost touch when he moved back to rural Arkansas and embraced Christianity. Ditto also experienced the end of her marriage to longtime partner Kristin Ogata and the loss of her father. Meanwhile, Blilie also went through a divorce. Real Power largely reflects on these tough experiences. The standout track, “Act of God”, is a funky soul tune with haunting vocals and keys that convey Ditto’s heartache.
The statement “the personal is political” remains true. This is not due to a lack of commentary on power overall in the album, but rather because Gossip chooses to hold back in their music. The album Real Power does not have the same impact as it lacks energy. A 45-minute record should leave listeners feeling exhilarated and emotionally relieved, like a car wash for the soul. However, this record feels too polished despite the time it took to create, with small details perfected.
It could have been bolder and more unconventional, confidently making its own choices. The country music genre is currently in the spotlight. The familiar twang in songs like “Edge of the Sun” or “Tough” could have been more daring, brought to the forefront instead of being hinted at subtly. Ditto’s vocal range includes range includes elements of house music. “Tell Me Something” presents classic house elements, but misses the mark with a distracting undertow that seems better suited for a different track. The album as a whole displays skill and impressive arrangements, with tracks like “Peace and Quiet” showing the band’s ability to evoke sadness in country-pop. However, there is potential for even more striking highs and lows. It is a privilege to have Gossip back, but one can’t help but wish for more bravery and conviction in their music, as demonstrated in their previous work. “Don’t Be Afraid” feels like an epic piece restrained by a cheap Casio keyboard, lacking the power it could have had.
Source: theguardian.com
