Imagine a contemporary remake of Sex In the City where Samantha Jones takes centre stage, but in this incarnation, she's even more audacious, more daring, and unapologetically herself. In such a scenario, Blonde Venus, Sam Quealy’s new album, could seamlessly find its place as the film's soundtrack.
Blonde Venus is a resounding declaration of punk sensuality and the rebellious spirit that is so central to Sam Quealy’s work. Drawing inspiration from the film of the same title, famously starring the iconic Marlene Dietrich, Quealy embarks on a musical journey comprising fifteen tracks, each with its unique personality and a distinct nod to the world of drag. This audacious venture is brought to life with the creative touch of the French musician Marlon Magnée, the creative genius behind La Femme.
Released just in time for Halloween, Blonde Venus cleverly embraces a tinge of mystery and a touch of the macabre, particularly evident in tracks like Klepto. Quealy’s sweet yet razor-sharp voice exudes a seductive allure, notably in songs like Cocaine Hollywood, which serves as a potent reminder of the intoxicating influence of fame. In Valentine, her voice nearly whispers but persistently urges the bassline to rise, growing more aggressive with each repetition, leaving a Harley Quinn-like grin in its wake.
The evident influence of pop icons like Madonna and Britney Spears permeates the album, especially in the more electro-pop tracks such as Yum and Watch me Now. This influence amplifies the ‘80s-style synthesizers, adding a dance touch to the music.