Lily Allen Review of: It’s Not Me, It’s You
By Allison
“It’s Not Me, It’s You” is English singer Lily Allen‘s second album, featuring her new musical direction. Fans of Allen’s writing need not fear; the lyrics still contain her dry wit and take-no-prisoners social commentary. The music, however, deviates from her debut; it is more in the vein of synth/electro-pop music, creating a bright, atmospheric sound. The songs still retain the same upbeat and almost toy doll mood; it’s just presented in a different package.
A deeper exploration of the individual songs reveals several surprises: the electro-pop sound, although constantly present, has been spliced with oompa sounds (track 7: “Never Gonna Happen”), Eurotrance (track 2: The Fear), and a pseudo-Western TV theme (track 3: “Not Fair”). It is the most unique aspect of the album, and very charming. “It’s Not Me, It’s You” has something, something very important, that “Alright, Still” is missing: an explicit lyrics warning. It’s certainly well-placed; Allen has absolutely no interest in keeping her thoughts quiet. The track that stands out here is something called “F*** You,” a cheerful, twinkling, bell-filled song dedicated to the Bush Administration.
The album, by the letter of the spirit if not the law, remains true to the Lily Allen that her audience has come to love. It spares no one, it’s cohesive and consistent, upbeat and humorous. I don’t think it will blow anyone away with innovation, but it is definitely an enjoyable listen.c
The track listing for It’s Not Me, It’s You is as follows:
- Everyone’s At It
- The Fear
- It’s Not Fair
- 22
- I Could Say
- Go Back To the Start
- Never Gonna Happen
- Fuck You
- Who’d've Known
- Chinese
- Him
- He Wasn’t There
