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Kim Gordon - The Collective Review

Kim Gordon's latest album is a tour de force of bold experimentation, showcasing her unwavering confidence as an artist known for pushing boundaries and pioneering innovation.

The Collective marks a significant milestone in Kim Gordon's catalogue, representing her second solo album venture after the well-received No Home Record. Lead single "BYE BYE" accompanied by a visually striking video featuring Coco Gordon Moore and directed by Clara Balzary, sets the tone of the record with abrasive and outright addictive distorted percussion and guitars complimented by Gordon’s elusive and deadpan shopping list.

Recorded in her hometown of Los Angeles, The Collective sees Gordon collaborating once again with producer Justin Raisen, known for his diverse portfolio spanning from Lil Yachty to John Cale. Together, they create a cacophony of noise that pushes the boundaries of conventional music, incorporating elements of trap, dub and Gordon's signature experimentation.

The album's title, suggestive of a communal experience, contrasts with the introspective nature of its content. Gordon delves into themes of isolation, consumer culture, and the complexities of interpersonal relationships, inviting listeners to reflect on their own place in the modern world. Through her intuitive word collages and hooky mantras, she navigates the realms of communication and sensory overload with a raw honesty that resonates deeply.

One of the standout tracks, ‘Shelf Warmer’ exemplifies Gordon's ability to blur the lines between genres and emotions. By juxtaposing themes of love and commodification, she creates a thought-provoking commentary on contemporary society's obsession with materialism. The unconventional sounds and rhythms employed in this track, along with others on the album, contribute to its captivating yet unsettling atmosphere.

Overall, The Collective sees Kim Gordon at her best. With each track, she pushes the boundaries of her artistry and confronts existential questions with fearless introspection. Through her collaboration with Raisen, she constructs a world that is both haunting and alluring. It comes as no surprise that she continues to defy expectations, delivering a record that entrances with its fearless exploration. From start to finish, Gordon's artistic vision illuminates like a beacon, casting a lasting imprint on the collective consciousness of listeners who immerse themselves in this exhilarating record.