Sinead O'Connor: Theology
Sinead O'Connor is back on top form
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Monday, 25, Jun 2007 04:39
Rubyworks, out June 25th
In a nutshell.
Unnerving. Sensual. Powerful. Epic. Lingering.
What's it all about?
"Theology is an attempt to create a place of peace in a time of war. I simply wanted to make a beautiful thing which inspires me," says O'Connor, and this double album sees the gifted singer-songwriter return to the rock fold after experimenting in other musical genres.
Released as two discs, the first CD, recorded in Dublin, comprises ten stripped down vocal and acoustic guitar tracks. The second disc - assembled in London - pours full band production into the Dublin songs.
Who's it by
After the global success of Nothing Compares 2 U in the early 90s, O'Connor - always a forthright individual - opted to raise a family and was vilified for speaking her mind on controversial subjects such as child abuse.
Yet, as with mavericks Bjork and Kate Bush, there is and always has been a loyal fan base for O'Connor, and Theology rewards her devotees with a double whammy of faith and societal issues-inspired songs and music.
As an example.
"Don't let my cry for mercy be ignored" - Out of the Depths
Likelihood of a trip to the Grammys
Theology could very well see the divine Miss O'Connor descend upon the Grammys.
What the others say
"We give the edge to the stripped-down demos (on disc one) - save money by staying out of London studios, Ms O'Connor." - Rhapsody Online.
"Delicious.O'Connor never fails to surprise, and you get the feeling there's more to come from this artist." - The Independent.
So is it any good?
With the Dublin sessions on disc one you get O'Connor's fantastic voice accompanied by superb acoustic guitar, and disc two, masterminded by R 'n' B producer Ron Tom, reworks the songs with the benefit of full studio production. Compare and contrast away.
Although Out Of The Depths surges with O'Connor's strong, emotional timbre on both versions, the movie soundtrack quality on the London disc has to be the next single release.
If You Had A Vineyard and The Glory Of Jah are inspirational tracks on both CDs: sexy, sumptuous vocals, stirring guitar and driving militaristic drums.
Unfortunately, her cover of Curtis Mayfield's We People Who Are Darker Than Blue falls short of the mark apart from the sizzling instrumental on the London CD version.
Whomsoever Dwells, on both discs, bubbles with passion and mystery, and you're enticed by O'Connor's smoky, late night vocal delivery.
9 /10
Lee Davis