Her first album as a solo artist, Beth Ditto comes out strong with Fake Sugar.
“Fire” leads the album with a catchy, foot-tapping, head-bopping beat. Beth Ditto’s almost sinister sounding voice lures listeners into the beat, having them nodding and singing along as soon as the drums kick in and pave the way to the amped up chorus. She finishes strong with the lyric, “Bless my soul, I can’t resist,” almost foreshadowing how listeners won’t be able to resist hearing the rest of the album.
“In and Out” follows the first track with equal catchiness. “Oh My God” and “Do You Want Me To”, like their predecessor, contain memorable choruses that embed themselves into your memory. You’ll probably find yourself subconsciously humming along to one, if not all, of these tracks.
Similar to “Fire,” Fake Sugar contains all sorts of songs that should have a spot on a summer jam sesh playlist. “Savior Faire,” “Oo La La,” and “Go Baby Go” are tracks that make you want to just let your hair down and sway, bop and tap along to the beat. These upbeat songs transport listeners back to the 80s - they’re just full of attitude and grit.
Delving away from the heavy instrumental interludes, “We Could Run” appears to be the most ballad-like track of Fake Sugar. It’s a cute song that showcases feelings shared with a special someone.
Going along the slow, ballad route, the album includes more mellow songs, like the title track, “Fake Sugar,” “Love in Real Life,” “Lover” and “Clouds (Song for John)”. Ditto’s voice easily transitions from its rough and gritty exterior to one that is soft, mellow and smooth, while still remaining full of emotion.
Beth Ditto’s voice is definitely one of a kind and that shows throughout her debut album. It drips with so much feeling, authority and attitude, it’s near impossible to not feel empowered and sassy after listening to a few tracks. Fake Sugar provides this fierce songstress with a strong start into her solo career. Catchy choruses and beats make this album a must-have on any summer playlist. |