The Gossip- Heavy Cross

The Gossip- Heavy Cross (Link 2) (LINK REMOVED)

Have they sold out? The Gossip’s ultimate intentions haven’t been clear for a long time. The force of nature that is Beth Ditto has other things to think about now- her style, her socialite status, her clothing lines. Oh, and her new doll (see above). Where does music fit in anymore?

The answer to that question is ‘Heavy Cross’, an incredible return to form. Everyone is understandably hung up on Beths voice, but it appears as if their new album will be a balanced affair, due to the man producing it, Rick Rubin. ‘Standing In The Way Of Control’ was arguably the song of 2006, and the mixing was right for the time, but Beth’s battering ram of a voice became a little much over a whole album. This might explain the UK peak of #22 in the albums chart.

The Gossip can- and probably have- learn a lot from Rick Rubin. He isn’t invincible (see the latest Weezer album) but as producers go, Rick knows how to record songs, and this new single is no exception. ‘It’s a funny way, to make ends meet, when the lights are out on every street.’

He has carefully avoided polishing their sound, as the raw edges are important in their appeal. The song structure seems to have benefited hugely, with a opening section which builds the suspense, punctuated with an epic line: ‘I trust yo-o-o-ou’ she sings. On the basis of this, Beth, I trust you too.

‘Music For Men’ is out June 23 digitally, and then October 6 as a physical release. Pre-order it.



2 Responses to “The Gossip- Heavy Cross”

1. disco d says:

   May 16, 2009 at 6:48 am

   The Gossip have gone bland.
   I’ve bought all their records seen them live 4 times.
   And, this is not the TRUE Gossip.
   Whoever produced this should be ashamed!
   The management should be fired!
2. Will says:

   May 16, 2009 at 7:26 am

   Bland!? Please don’t try and argue that the main hook isn’t one of the best in recent years… you are alone in this opinion!

   Rick Rubin produced the record, and is one of the most famous producers of all time…

   The raw edges are still there, mate, this is just the sound of progress!