Kylie Minogue Lures Listeners on 'Aphrodite'

A prominent force on the international pop scene, Kylie's often had a difficult time catching on in the US. With her shiny beats and airy vocals, the appeal tends to be niche. But that all changed with the release of "All the Lovers" and its accompanying music video. With the wave of dance fever striking the nation, Kylie was poised for a US comeback. And bless her for not getting anywhere near David Guetta when crafting Aphrodite.

Stomping on Cher's "Believe" territory, Minogue's "All the Lovers" is an anthemic declaration, uplifting and inspirational. It will likely become one of the defining tracks of the decade. Where "Believe" spoke to an era fighting and overcoming rejection, Kylie speaks to a newfound freedom. "What's the point of living if you don't wanna dance?" she chimes on "Better Than Today." For Kylie, the formula seems to be "Dance + Love = Eternal Merriment." Who could argue with that?

The endless life here seems ready to explode into dance at any moment, with tracks like "Too Much" practically begging listeners to get on their feet. Some even come with instructions, most obviously, "Put Your Hands Up (If You Feel Love)." In Kylie's world, that echoes as a command, as any other state than loving bliss doesn't register in her octave. After all, "Everything Is Beautiful" 'cause you "Can't Beat the Feeling."

Endlessly peppy (cynics would say "one-note"), Kylie often comes across as a brand more than a human being. Thankfully, she's a harmless and endearing brand, overflowing with lovable platitudes and joyous melodies. Her only concern seems to be making a club full of gay men smile. A little Madonna, a little Janet, a little Scissor Sisters. It's a patch-work of pop culture that somehow manages to morph into its own. Her answer to that is crystal clear: "I'm a golden girl. I'm an Aphrodite! Alright!"

GPA - 3.4

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