Olly Alexander has had a mixed time of it since folding Years & Years a couple of years ago, beginning with a musically promising Eurovision effort last year that sank like a stone at the event itself. But the singer is now ready to take a stand with ‘Polari’, his first full-length release under his own name.
Taking its title from slang used by gay men and other marginalised groups throughout history, the record floats in a queer-friendly, sex-positive bubble as Alexander tackles real, relatable topics from cruising and intimacy to ‘DL’ men. The only problem is that, musically at least, the bubble bursts almost immediately.
Where Alexander’s earlier work was uniformly punchy, the majority of ’Polari’ is lacklustre and ineffective.
The catchy opener Cupid’s Bow starts off well, with pulsing synths mirroring Alexander’s lust and desire, and Make Me A Man is similarly infectious, evolving into a retro banger that has more than a little bit of Steps to it.
But it’s Dizzy, which limped to 18th place at Eurovision, that serves as an unlikely champion. With its not-so-subtle nods to Pet Shop Boys and Erasure, it is a delightfully cheesy, inescapably fun slice of ‘90s revival dance-pop.
That’s about it for the hits as the majority of ‘Polari’ merges into an uninspiring mess. Miss You So Much is lyrically clever but lacks conviction. When We Kiss has all the elements of a hit — polished production, weighty vocals and decent lyrics — but it never comes together. Whisper In The Waves sounds like Peter Andre.
And while closing with a ballad looks like a good idea on paper, Language is a strained, oddly uncompelling note to end on. ‘Polari’ is half-baked and forgettable. If you are seeking a jolt of ‘90s fun, look up the genuine article.
Olly Alexander Upcoming Tour Dates are as follows:
Tue April 01 2025 - DUBLIN 3Olympia Theatre
Wed April 02 2025 - BIRMINGHAM Town Hall
Thu April 03 2025 - GLASGOW Barrowland
Fri April 04 2025 - MANCHESTER Hall, Aviva Studios
Sun April 06 2025 - BRISTOL Beacon
Mon April 07 2025 - LONDON Palladium
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