:: Santogold - Santogold

Santogold

Singer and producer Santi White was the lead singer of a ska punk band previously. Now, five years later, in front of Santogold, she finds a new identity and provides one of the most assured and confident records so far this year. John Hill is the silent production hive of the outfit. The music defies a particular classification. It contains definite electronic overtones, and are occasionally mixed with dub basslines. The ska influences are still apparent, but it is a generally terrific set of innovative songs of numerous aural landscapes. In this debut album, we've already heard the popular radio hit “L.E.S. Artistes”, an obvious guitar pop charmer that really demonstrates Santi's growth as a performer. A fine, hypnotic closing track “You'll Find A Way” leaves you in good spirits. The album effortlessly mirrors the heavy 80's pop sound Santi clearly grew up on, yet not once does she overdose on it. Santogold’s secret weapon is her charismatic persona. She embodies her songs, breathing them into brilliant life. Add to her talent a slew of ultra-hip collaborators - Diplo, Switch, Spank Rock and more - and Santogold shapes up to be one of the best debut albums this year.