Colin Amoth
A beautiful mosaic of world sounds and political rap is just the beginning in trying to describe Maya Arulpragasam’s (a.k.a. MIA) first full-length album. The story of the daughter of a Sir-Lankan freedom fighter can be heard through the dance hall of exotic instruments and heavy electro beats. Playful political lyrics spark on and off in between catchy rhymes and clever play-on-words. And even with all the heart-breaking commentary on issues, like sweat shops in her hometown, she still keeps it interesting and lively; maybe you’ll even feel the urge to dance, which isn’t uncommon. If there is one thing that is absolutely certain about this album, it is that she refuses to stay silent and we are glad for the rebellion.
My personal rating: 4 out of 5
