This album kicks off with a real sense of urgency, like there’s an imminent threat to the world’s music, before gradually transforming into a musical celebration. MATA, M.I.A.’s sixth album, is undeniably radical. It contrasts with her last album, the incredible AIM, which traded rough-edged sounds for an exploration of trap and soothing melodies. Perhaps the English musician needed to convey the current social climate, the crises we face and the uncertain state of the world through music. MATA is certainly in line with the political stance of its creator, and it’s unquestionably a female album. The choruses, the themes, the visual aesthetics: everything revolves around women and their affirmation, creating a revolutionary and collective vibe. There are frantic, oriental rhythms on tracks such as ‘Beep’ and ‘Puththi’, as well as passages where the production is surprisingly bare, like on ‘100 % Sustainable’ - a heavenly a cappella. M.I.A.’s sound hasn’t aged at all: she simply draws upon what made her music a success in the years 2000-2010. She thrives on these sounds, injecting them with a current and pragmatic edge. If that constitutes musical aggression, then so much the better. © Brice Miclet/Qobuz