There's a simple rule of thumb when it comes to PJ Harvey albums - every time the West Country temptress makes an accessible record, a 'difficult' one is sure to follow. So, given that 2000's Stories From The City, Stories From The Sea was bright and melodic, it's no surprise that Uh Huh Her is so murky and primitive. Which is not to say that it's bad - in fact, it's one of her most powerful efforts to date. It's also, however, extremely uneasy listening. Harvey literally howls her way through these guttural songs of lust, betrayal and revenge against a minimalist backdrop of bluesy guitars and pulsating drums. The production is so intimate, you can almost sense her standing next to you - which is a bit uncomfortable, since most of the time she sounds as if she's dying to plunge a dagger into the nearest back. This is a dark, brooding and hugely challenging album. It's well worth the effort.

Your Comments

No comments have been posted for this article yet. Be the first!