MUSIC REVIEW
“This Is Acting,” Sia’s seventh studio album, takes listeners on a songwriting journey with songs that include upbeat dance anthems, a heartbreak or two, and a couple of power anthems.
The concept behind this record is Sia “acting” as a different personality for every song, since every song on this album is one that was written for another artist by Sia. With songs meant for Adele, Katy Perry, Miley Cyrus, Rihanna and many more, Sia put up a different facade for every track.
The first song off the record, titled “Bird Set Free,” is the perfect start to the album. It begins with a piano melody that stays with the song throughout its entirety. Sia comes in with a soft yet powerful intro with her pleading to become more powerful. The song emulates that, growing in power into an explosive chorus.
“Alive” was the first single off “This Is Acting.” It follows a similar theme and structure as “Bird Set Free,” but takes on more of an upbeat sound that listeners can’t help but become completely enthralled with. The chorus only consists of the words “I’m alive” being repeatedly sung, but Sia is able to keep listeners holding their breath. Adele was a fool to have passed up this masterpiece (we still love you though.)
“One Million Bullets” is the perfect follow-up to “Alive.” It allows listeners to take a moment and enjoy the music after a song that is filled with energy. There is something about this track that makes listeners have to think. The combination of a super simple piano pulse and the driving rhythm section forces listeners to pay attention.
The most danceable song on the album is by far “Move Your Body.” Right off the bat, listeners are greeted with an upbeat pulse that makes sure they’re awake. Sia starts off the song with a gentle sort of mumble-singing. All this, just so she can slap listeners in the face with the most energetic chorus on the album. The bridge is a quiet duet between her and the piano, just before she hit listens with the chorus again. If this song doesn’t make listeners dance every time it’s on, they are doing something wrong; eat more vegetables or something. Shakira, you missed out.
“Unstoppable” allows listeners to catch their breath after dancing so hard. This song is the perfect mood-booster for anyone feeling down. There may have never been a power anthem that is as effective as this one. I guarantee after listening, anyone will feel unstoppable.
Acting as a sort of prequel to Sia’s 2014 hit “Chandelier,” “Cheap Thrills” is all about getting ready to go out on the weekend and having a great time for little money. Being another dance anthem, this song carries out the theme of a continuous pulse throughout all three-and-a-half minutes.
Kanye West lends a hand in one of the prettiest tracks on the album. “Reaper” does a fantastic job of showing off not only Sia’s vocal strengths, but also the emotion that is put into her writing, especially in this song. It’s a track that listeners might skip at first, but trust me, it will grow into a favorite.
“House On Fire” is one of the more laid-back songs on the album. While it is probably one of the weaker tracks, it is still a spectacle. A story about a relationship that isn’t healthy, Sia takes listeners on a journey of putting themselves through hell, even when it hurts, begging for a love that will never be received.
It’s only fitting that the follow-up to “House On Fire” is a cute love song called “Footprints.” Listeners are instantly transported to a tropical beach. Opening with some classic Sia harmonies, the song starts out with her being hurt, but finding someone who is willing to put it all on the line for her. “Footprints” is one of those songs that people will want played at their weddings, and you can bet your buttons it’ll be played at mine.
“Sweet Design” is the most intriguing track on this album. At first listen, the lyrics can barely be understood; even I had to look up the lyrics, and I’m so glad I did. The chorus consists of her bragging about her butt, a common theme in today’s music. Just give it a listen; this song will not disappoint.
“Broken Glass” is a pretty song about giving up something important. The backing vocals on this track are nothing but beautiful, and the chorus is a piece of art. This song is special because it doesn’t feature Sia’s signature belting of high notes. It’s simple and stripped down, which is a perfect lead up to the final track.
“Space Between” might seem like an odd ending track at first, but it’s sort of genius. This song is quite possibly the most beautiful track Sia has ever recorded, and it is genuinely hers, from the easily recognizable vocals, to the genuine lyrics Sia is known for. This song left me with chills and instantly wanting another album.
“This Is Acting” is arguably Sia’s best work to date. With a song on here for everyone, it’s a guaranteed chart smasher. Whether listeners are looking for it or not, this is the album that they need right now.
