10 Overrated Rock Music Albums Of The 2010s

It’s important to note that Annie Clark’s fourth album as St. Vincent is by no means a bad album. It’s better than decent, occasionally very good, and does the job of propelling St. Vincent into mainstream attention.

Therein lies the problem. Clark’s previous, Strange Mercy, is a crackling record of deeply idiosyncratic pop, full of winding tunes, icy cool delivery, and sudden explosions of unexpected sound.

Clark’s self titled record smooths off almost all of these rough edges to make something radio and club friendly, but decidedly less interesting. The likes of Birth in Reverse and sharp single Digital Witness are well constructed and catchy tracks, but comparatively speaking they’re light on ideas.

It’s churlish to criticise an artist for wanting mass appeal, but the difference between the first and second half of St. Vincent’s career is pretty stark. As bountiful as the increased sheen has been, it’s hard not to miss the good old weird days.