Gossip – Real Power: Album Review

By Micha Thompson on 27th March 2024 • ( Leave a comment )

Absence makes the heart grow fonder as Gossip make a welcome return.

Release Date: 22nd March 2024

Label: Columbia Records

Format: CD / Vinyl / Digital

Gossip make their return with their new studio album; Real Power. It marks a comeback after 11 years of having not released music and 5 years of working on this album. Real Power marks a reunion between Gossip and the legendary producer Rick Rubin, who helped the band with their 2009 album Music For Men.

Act Of God is an upbeat and rocky opener to the album and sounds like it should be in a coming-of-age film. The blend of the electric guitars and vocals are the perfect combination.

The transition into the single and title track, Real Power, runs smoothly and keeps up to the high expectations of the album. Released earlier in January, it portrays their love for their Portland home. Lyrically, it could be seen as a little repetitive, however Beth Ditto’s stunning and powerful vocals make up for it.

Crazy Again depicts a strong message about feeling safe in a relationship. The tune is an electro-pop instrumental. Edge Of The Sun is a personal favourite; definitely a track to blast in the car with the windows down in summer! Once again, Ditto’s soulful vocals shine here and are wonderfully accompanied by the band to make it a catchy hit.

Gossip continues to shine on this album and fans have been patiently waiting for their long-awaited return. The 11 tracks are symbolic while also providing fans with new music to enjoy and love. Following their success on their headline set at BBC 6 Music festival in March, Gossip will embark on a full UK/EU tour as well as a summer packed with festival appearances such as the iconic Glastonbury Festival in June and All Points East in August. Gossip are back and ready to take on the world again.

Here’s the title track; Real Power.