Release Date: October 21, 2016
It has been three years since Lady Gaga has released music to the pop scene. This is the follow up to her 2013 album ARTPOP, which is widely considered a flop if you are not a little monster. That being said, has Mother Monster done her fans justice with this new piece?
Right off the back it is clear that this era is a new light to the Gaga we have come to know and love over the years. She’s ditched the avant-garde style for a traditional country, rock vibe found in a classic American dive bar. It’s stripped down and unplugged Gaga, in fact it’s more of an introspective look at Stefani Germnonatta than Mother Monster.
The album opened up with the track Diamond Heart, which pushes listeners in to progressive tune about tragic relationships and how if a relationship leaves you with scars, you aren’t damaged goods. This track is one of many that aren’t the typical dance floor anthems like Gaga has given us, like Just Dance or Bad Romance; yet, they still make us want to find the nearest dive bar and dance on top of the bar. The song A-YO produced my Mark Ronson himself shows off the pop country vibe and will have grabbing a guitar and forgetting the troubles you have. Tracks like Dancin’ in Circles, John Wayne, and Perfect Illusion do the same, and are sure to make your playlist for a night out.
These dance numbers are complicated with ballads that pull at the heart strings. Specifically tracks like Joanne and Angel Down. Joanne being the album title and title of a song reflects Gaga’s emotional and familial connection her late aunt. Its raw in the emotional sense, saying “girl where do you think you’re going” and “heaven’s not ready for you”. It’s a jam that will have you hugging your loved ones and remembering any of the ones in your life you have lost. Similarly, the song Angel Down shows Gaga’s reflection of police brutality events, dedicating the track to Trayvon Martian. There is harsh imagery of gun violence juxtaposed with holy imagery showing the tragedy of the event.
The team used to bring this album is extensive seeing credits from Beck, Mark Ronson, Elton John, and even a feature by Florence Welch. Gaga and Florence complement each other perfectly on Hey Girl serving us 70’s vibes and female empowerment all the way. It’s a team that’s too big to fail and its that’s true.
This album is worth the wait. It’s not the Gaga we have seen, but that’s the best part. Instead we are presented with an evolution of artistry in the best way. Joanne will be on my playlist for years to come and preparing for the Super Bowl Halftime performance of a lifetime.
You can stream Joanne on Apple Music and Spotify now.
