Jessie Ware's Superbloom: A Disco-Pop Feast in the Shadow of Podcasting Stardom
Jessie Ware, the acclaimed singer and co-host of the wildly popular Table Manners podcast, has released her third consecutive disco-infused album, Superbloom. This latest offering from the British artist delves deeper into retro sounds, presenting a lush, orchestral take on the disco-pop hybrid that has defined her recent work. While her podcasting success with mother Lennie Ware has skyrocketed, featuring A-list guests like Margot Robbie and Paul McCartney, Superbloom proves Ware's musical prowess remains undiminished, even as it risks being overshadowed by her side hustle.
The Podcast Influence and Retro Reinvention
The impact of Table Manners on Superbloom is palpable, both literally and thematically. The track Automatic features a spoken-word cameo from Euphoria star Colman Domingo, a previous podcast guest, blending Ware's worlds seamlessly. This album marks a deliberate doubling down on her signature style, eschewing the futuristic electronica of 2020's What's Your Pleasure? and 2023's That! Feels Good! in favour of opulent, early-80s boogie-inspired arrangements. Ware's commitment to camp, grownup pop is amplified here, with lyrics that explore themes of love, motherhood, and identity, as heard on the ballad 16 Summers, which echoes the emotional depth of Abba's Slipping Through My Fingers.
Campy Moments and Quality Control
Superbloom is not without its intentionally tacky moments. Tracks like Ride, debuted at Glastonbury's queer club NYC Downlow, combine cowboy imagery with whip cracks and Ennio Morricone samples, pushing the boundaries of kitsch. Similarly, Sauna features melodramatic intros that nod to gay culture, though Ware balances these with unerring quality control. The album may lack a chart-topping banger like Free Yourself, but it compensates with strong melodies and choruses, avoiding glitterball clichés through sophisticated string arrangements influenced by psychedelic soul maestro Charles Stepney.
Artistic Integrity in a Crowded Market
In a saturated market of disco-pop, Ware distinguishes herself through classiness and genuine passion for her source material. Collaborations with likeminded artists result in tracks like Mr Valentine, which evokes the punk funk of Liquid Liquid and ESG, showcasing a spare, rattling sound far removed from tacky 70s nostalgia. Ware's impassioned vocals, even on sillier songs, convey authenticity, reinforcing her dominance in this niche. While Superbloom may not deliver the jolt of her earlier pivot, it solidifies her lane with confidence and artistry.
The Future of Ware's Dual Career
As Ware's podcasting fame potentially eclipses her music career, Superbloom serves as a reminder of her talent. The album's well-crafted compositions and retro charm highlight what pop would lose if she were to abandon music entirely. For now, fans can enjoy this sequin-festooned collection, a testament to Ware's ability to juggle multiple successes without compromising on quality.
