Album Review: Alison Moyet - 'Key'
Like a certain other modern-day singing sensation from working class origins, Alison Moyet’s lyrical themes have often delved into personal reflection, revealing emotional complexity, making for an empathetic listening experience; before there was Adele, there was Alison.
Moyet never reached the dizzying heights or had the phenomenal global success of Adele (not many have, to be fair). Emerging in the 1980s as one half of pop duo Yazoo, she soon established herself as a solo star with hits like "Love Resurrection" and "All Cried Out." (both featured here in re-recorded form).
On her 10th album, in her fortieth year as a solo artist, Moyet showcases some her signature blend of pop, ballads, and electronic influences, reimagining 16 of her biggest singles, deeper cuts and fan favourites updating them with a modern pop production sheen in the process – as well as adding a further two brand new tracks for good measure.
For an artist, reinterpreting one’s hits is a well-trodden path, previously taken by artists from Take That to Def Leppard, with varying degrees of success and motivation.
On the one hand – it’s a convenient way to put an interesting spin on a Greatest Hits collection and for an artist to ‘reclaim control’ of their songs and their legacies from those dastardly record companies. On the other, and to the ears of longtime fans, what can possibly improve on the originals that we remember and love?
Fortunately, over her nine studio albums, Moyet has amassed an enviable catalogue of hits that, due to the strength of the songwriting and melodies, lend themselves well to reinterpretation. For Moyet, the incentive is to “explore songs that, in their original form, were never fully realised or have had their relevance to me altered by time.”
On “Key”, her work with collaborator Guy Sigsworth is referenced throughout - strong echoes of his work with Imogen Heap can be found on album opener “Where Hides Sleep” (the original can be found on debut album “Alf”) with its icy 80s synth stabs also reminiscent of Kavinsky - allowing her powerful vocals to shine. Whilst she has collaborated with several noted songwriters and producers throughout her career, with Sigsworth she feels that she found a partner with who she can enjoy a ‘A creative trust’.
Nevertheless, it’s Sean Maghee who has handled production duties and – with sometime Suede guitarist Richard Oakes – co-writing on the two new tracks “Such Small Ale” and “The Impervious Me”. The former has the lyrical maturity and melodic sensibility that only a decades long career can bring. The latter, on the other hand, has instrumental elements found in her early work with Vince Clarke and Yazoo.
Back to the album’s re-worked songs – standouts like album closer “You Don’t Have To Go” (heard on her first independent release, 2002’s “Hometime”), led by its keening, ebow guitar, eschewing the soulful organ of the original, showcasing a mournful sense of loss in it’s deep lyrical themes, while “All Cried Out” demonstrates a more languid and laid back vibe than the Dave Stewart co-written original: the interplay between electronic elements and classic instrumentation creates a fresh yet familiar atmosphere.
“My Best Day” – originally co-written with scouse guru Ian Broudie for the Lightning Seeds’ “Jollification” album – is a fun slice of pop perfection, all new wave guitar stabs and electronic burbles. It’s an album standout. While the melodies are pure 90s era Lightning Seeds, Moyet’s distinctive voice drives the song throughout.
Overall, Key is a compelling addition to Moyet's discography, balancing nostalgia with modern pop sensibilities. Moyet's exploration of themes like love, loss, and resilience feels both personal and universal, resonating with long-time fans and new listeners alike. Indeed - newcomers who are fans of the aforementioned Adele’s powerful vocals and thoughtful songwriting will find plenty to appreciate in this well-crafted collection. A planned world tour for 2025 is not to be missed.
Key demonstrates Moyet’s ability to continue to evolve while staying true to her roots – making her an enduring figure in today’s pop landscape.
Words by Colin Rice
