The British singer-songwriter originally known for the 80s psych-prog band Porcupine Tree returns with his sixth solo album, an electronica odyssey caustically exploring aspects of how the human brain has evolved in the internet era. Social commentary, wit and synth arpeggios mix with some soaring and talky vocals in this futuristic style thesis, following 2017’s To The Bone, which confronted the emerging global issues of post truth and fake news. Wilson plays with a variety of styles. Cleverly composed, the first three tracks are very synth-orientated – Self, Unself and King Ghost – then 12 Things I Forgot is about losing yourself in self-derogatory way through a prism 70s piano pop. Man of the People is a cutting number about a public figure caught in scandal. The deadpan humour comes to its peak on Personal Shopper, listing a heap of internet orders, with a talking guest appearance, no less by that king of lavish shoppers, Elton John. Eminent Sleaze even as elements of Rock On by David Essex. King Ghost and the closing track, Count of Unease, are the most beautifully fragile numbers. Like the internet itself, it’s a mixed bag of content, full wonderful and also odd rabbit holes, self-discovery and self-losing, and ups and downs, blessings and curses. Out on Caroline International.
Feel free to also check out our favourite albums of 2020 here:
Fiona Apple to Lianne La Havas to Yves Tumor: favourite albums of 2020 – Part 1
Agnes Obel to Bob Dylan, Phoebe Bridgers to Sault: favourite albums of 2020 – Part 2
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