Renowned musician St Vincent, the artistic persona of Anne Erin Clark, has released her seventh studio album, All Born Screaming, with the opus marking a bold new chapter in her critically acclaimed career.
In the self-produced record, the American artist ventures into a vibrant and genre-defying soundscape she dubs ‘post-plague pop.’
All Born Screaming pulsates with the raw energy of a world emerging from a period of collective trauma.
The album delves into themes of vulnerability, resilience, and the chaotic beauty of existence, all delivered with St Vincent’s signature intensity.
Opening with the synth-driven anthem Hell Is Near, the album sets the tone for its exploration of societal anxieties and personal struggles.
A cinematic ballad Reckless follows, showcasing St Vincent’s soaring vocals and introspective lyricism.
Singles like Broken Man and Flea showcase the album’s infectious groove, drawing inspiration from 70’s funk and disco while retaining St Vincent’s avant-garde sensibilities.
Big Time Nothing injects a dose of playful sarcasm into the mix, offering a commentary on the absurdity of modern life.
However, the album isn’t solely focused on danceable rhythms. Tracks like Violent Times and The Power’s Out delve into darker territory, confronting the anxieties of the current socio-political climate.
Sweetest Fruit offers a moment of melancholic reflection, while the title track, featuring Cate Le Bon, closes the album with a defiant roar of acceptance and liberation.
All Born Screaming embraces experimentation, seamlessly blending elements of rock, pop, funk, and electronica into a cohesive and electrifying sonic tapestry.
Collaborations with musicians like Dave Grohl and contributions from second-wave ska and dub pioneers further enrich the album’s sonic palette.
“This record is 100 per cent lived experience. I’ve felt every lyric on it,” St Vincent explained.
This raw honesty resonates throughout the album, making All Born Screaming a deeply personal and relatable experience for the listener.
It’s an album that demands to be experienced, a potent and cathartic journey through the complexities of the human condition in a post-pandemic world.
Primarily known for alternative rock, St Vincent’s music often veers into pop, funk, and electronica.
Praised for her innovative and genre-bending music, she’s often recognised as one of the best guitarists of the 21st century, ranking 26th on Rolling Stone’s list of the greatest guitarists of all time in 2023.