“Let’s Be Mates,” the opening song on Lady Sovereign’s second album,
goes like this: “I’m weird/And you’re weird/Let’s be mates.” It’s not
lyrically innovative or particularly compelling, but it’s fitting that
the British rapper recognizes that she’s unconventional, and her fans
probably are too if they’re listening to her. The rest of Jigsaw follows 2006’s Public Warning, her critically acclaimed and
commercially successful debut, with a similar fast-talking,
not-really-saying-anything sensibility. Lady Sov occasionally spits
some clever lines, but her lyrics don’t have the wit or punch to match
her powerful, speedy delivery.
“I Got You Dancing!” (the album’s first single) is bouncy, with
snappy vocals, but it’s overly remixed and the lyrics are weak.
Jigsaw has some strong points: The title track is comparably
emotive and engaging, as Lady Sov explores her singing abilities and
conveys interesting ideas about relationships, while “So Human,” which
appropriates the Cure’s “Close to Me,” is memorable and dancey. Lady
Sov didn’t turn out to be a wunderkind after Public Warning, and
Jigsaw lacks a clear vision. But she’s talented and turns a
compelling phrase. We’ll just go with it when she says, “Let’s be
mates.” — Emily Zemler
This article appears in Apr 8-14, 2009.
