Under the surface of the UK’s personality and manufactured pop-dominated music industry, there exists genuine and real talent. Over the last month, Rachel Stevens (formerly from S Club 7) has dominated TV and Radio airtime, and as a result has secured herself the number 2 position in the singles chart. She has mimed her song on each and every occasion during numerous ‘live’ performances. In sharp contrast, talented Mercury Music Prize nominated Martina Topley-Bird has being ignored by the broadcast media. It’s perverse in the extreme, especially in view of the quality of her debut solo album.

Following a brief intro track, Need One bursts forth. It’s a powerful pop song with an enormous melody, and a vocal ideally moulded to the song’s epic vibe. But Anything which follows gets down to real business with a song as distinctive, fresh and beautiful as anything on this or anybody else’s album. It’s a mellow creation with strong melody and lyrics, and a stark, simple instrumental arrangement. The slow-paced Soul Food follows and exemplifies this lady’s love for soul and jazz, while providing a showcase for her substantial vocal talent. I’m also struck by the beautifully judged production and judicious use of vocal harmonies.

Lullaby is a contemplative, wistful love song that has to emanate from within with a lyric like, “You don’t understand, Just like the rock in my hand.” The wistful is followed by the strong and inventive beat of Too Tough To Die that rushes along like a steam train. The utterly sensual Ragga leaves no one in doubt with lyrics like, “I wrap my tongue around to get you to be the clown, Oh I love it so much, I’m doing things I wouldn’t normally do…”

Topley-Bird has created a debut album of mixed mood and pace, while doing what all great performers/writers do: expose their feelings through music. And this is one original, emotional, accessible, mature roller-coaster ride, and deserving of strong recommendation (and broadcast media recognition).

4/5