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Rating: 9/10

Best Tracks: Alive; Bird Set Free; Reaper; House On Fire; Move Your Body

Australian singer songwriter Sia is perhaps best known for her unique vocals and equally unique choice in music videos, but in recent years, Sia has gained worldwide recognition, creating a powerhouse of music that speaks to millions. Her seventh album, This is Acting, was released in 2016 by Inertia, Monkey Puzzle and RCA Records. What many do not realise about the album is in fact, most of the tracks were actually written for other pop icons, which didn’t make it to the final cut of their albums. Sia believed that writing for other musicians was ‘play-acting,’ explaining the name for the album.

After purchasing the CD in 2016, I immediately fell head over heels for the album. Sia is a phenomenal lyricist, with each song on the album telling a story. This is one of the many reasons why I adore this album. Not only does the bass and the beat of the songs drive the inner confidence within me to the surface, but it also makes me feel like I can take on anything in life. I will say this once, and only once…I believe Sia is the queen of pop. One example of the pure talent Sia holds is in the track ‘Alive’, which starts off slow and steady, but soon takes a dark turn. With the infectious beat of the bass and the gorgeous vocals, Sia drills into listeners that this song is no joke; the artist will be heard, no matter what. The album then jumps to ‘One Million Bullets’, slowing down the pace for the listener to take a breather from the up-tempo track list. This slower vibe does not last long, however, before the song ‘Move Your Body’ comes into play, taking listeners into a whole other time and place, forced to feel the beat and move along to the rhythm. I have tried and failed to stay sitting for this song, but unfortunately it is impossible for me.

It is clear to see why This Is Acting gained worldwide recognition, selling 81,000 album equivalent units in its first week of release. I fully recommend Sia’s music to all listeners. Sia’s music is compelling, planting a sense of confidence within me when I feel down. I recommend that everyone listen to This is Acting to hear just why Sia is, in my opinion, the queen of pop music.