Since releasing her debut album 'Love Tattoo' in 2008, things have really taken off for Liberties lady Imelda May. Having achieved platinum sales with that album and performed alongside Jeff Beck at the Grammys in the intervening two years, Imelda is now on the cusp of stardom with the release of its follow up 'Mayhem'.
Having begun her career singing in pubs and bars of all shapes and sizes, Imelda May is a lounge singer with a difference, her most valuable asset a most vivacious energy and likable personality that could never be expected to come through on record the way they do on stage. All the same, there's something quite invigorating about May's brand of what is so often termed as "rockabilly".
The snappy double bass that kicks off opener 'Pull The Rug' immediately inspires shoulder shimmying, a similar effect to the infectious lead single, 'Mayhem'. A blatant 1950s rock and roll influence drives the jive style guitars of 'Sneaky Freak' and 'Eternity', the one original song not written by Imelda, but rather, by her husband Darrel Higham. Elsewhere it's a country and western vibe that's more evident. 'I'm Alive' blends a country roll with a laidback Hawaiian luau vibe, while 'Proud and Humble' boasts a more traditional rodeo cowboy approach to the genre.
The powerful lament 'To Sad To Cry' sees May make the most of her adaptable voice, giving it time to hover and tremble at the end of each phrase. Hints of Imelda's strong Dublin accent seep through endearingly on 'Kentish Town Waltz', though its antiquated romantic stylings may appeal more to the older listener. Finishing with a rollicking cover of Soft Cell's classic 'Tainted Love' is somewhat anomalous but no doubt it's a live favourite. Even if nothing here is in any way life changing, it's a thoroughly enjoyable listen that will bring equal delights to every generation.
