YEARS AND YEARS – PALO SANTO
An awful lotta big money has been thrown at Y&Y’s sophomore album. The first single’s video, Sanctify, was so bombastic even Michael Jackson would have gasped. Then Dame Judi Dench was called upon to proffer her regal tones to this album’s companion short film in which our openly gay lead singer, Olly performed his non-stop erotic cabaret for The Showman. Guess we at least know now what Hugh Jackman does in his spare time! All of which is commendable, but there’s just one detail that’s been overlooked. Where are the hooks, catchy bits and awesome hits? If You’re Over Me is cute, but sub-par. We can but hope the hits flood back once Y&Y return to form and drop their current grandiose pretention, which is a slippery slope (just ask Gaga!). More memorable tunes like King, Desire and Shine from 2015’s debut Communion, next time please.