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Jan 25, 2016 Issue # 56 - Best of 2015 - Father John Misty and Wolf Alice By Scott Dransfield

Santigold burst onto 2008’s indie scene (back when those words still meant something) with a self-titled album of genre-bending pop-rock, folding in dub, reggae, and a hint of hip-hop. Associated with similarly forward-thinking artists like the Yeah Yeah Yeahs and M.I.A., she has frequently demonstrated a chameleonic ability to fit into a multitude of styles. Her new album 99¢ is once again impossible to define in generic terms, but it confirms a standing truth: Santigold is a master of the vibe.

Opening track “Can’t Get Enough of Myself” starts things off with a compulsively jaunty beat, its sunny melody absolutely nailing the optimistic vibe required by any ode to self-esteem. “Chasing Shadows” and “Walking in a Circle” are more elusive, Santigold’s pipes twisting around dark, synthy atmosphere. Baffling guest appearance by ILOVEMAKONNEN aside, “Who Be Lovin’ Me” is a perfectly cloudy invitation to chill.

The tracklist starts to lose steam a little toward the end, but 99¢ is best experienced as a collection of singles, anyway, and it’s another worthy addition to Santigold’s hugely varied repertoire. (www.santigold.com)

Author rating: 6.5/10