Review - La Roux - Trouble In Paradise

It’s been five years since La Roux changed the game on quality electronic music, and they’ve been missed dearly. Their self-titled debut was a triumph in every sense of the word. It propelled them to the upper echelon of indie fame and slightly beyond--remember, “Bulletproof” was a top ten hit in the US. They also won a little prize called a Grammy for Best Electronic/Dance Album, but whatever.

In the five years since La Roux was released, things have changed a lot in their world. For those who don’t know, the face you see is Elly Jackson, the androgynous, pale, red head singer and songwriter. The man behind the scenes, Ben Langmaid, who was the brilliant producer behind the impactful synths and brilliant dance tunes, never wanted the spotlight. The two had a falling out after making it big, and Ben left the project, leaving Elly to search for other collaborators.

She of course found plenty of talented people to work with, and the insightfully-named Trouble in Paradise is a good listen. It’s a lot more laid back than the first CD, focusing on a restrained, relaxed feel. There are even bits of what sound like Caribbean drums and ukulele. Not sure if they actually used those, but it certainly sounds like it.

Songs like “Tropical Chancer” are a perfect example of how La Roux’s sound went from glittering electropop that made you move like none other to a toned-down Ace of Base that makes you sway a little bit. It’s a nice album, and I can get into the groove, yet the entire time I can’t help but miss the old days. If you’re looking for another “Bulletproof” or “In For The Kill”, there are plenty of great electro artists that are still popping up, influenced by Roux’s early work.

Listen to: “Tropical Chancer”, “Uptight Downtown”, “Kiss and Not Tell”