M.I.A. M.I.7. Ohmni Music. ★★★½
Part rabid musical omnivore and part provocateur (her Ohmni clothing brand claims to offer "protection against advanced wi-fi and cell tower strength"), M.I.A.’s albums are never dull. Her seventh LP continues to triangulate sociopolitical commentary and personal identity, this time detailing her conversion to Christianity on her surprise "gospel" album. Featuring the Sunday Service Choir, and structured around the Book of Revelation’s seven trumpets of judgement, M.I.7. is far more accessible than the press release suggests — the clattering Ride the Sky, buttressed by a delightful bhangra melody and Prayer 777’s woozy trip-hop give these devotionals a sense of genuine experimentation.
Single download: Ride the Sky
For those who like: Slow Train Coming, with added bass
By John Hayden
