Olly Alexander, the previous lead of the electro-pop band Years & Years, returns with ‘Polari’ – a vibrant and lively homage to queer-pop.
His debut continues the legacy of Years & Years, featuring queer anthems that are perfect for the club scene. With influences from the distinctive synth-pop and sparkling electro-pop of the eighties, it evokes nostalgia while feeling refreshingly new.
His 2024 Eurovision entry, ‘Dizzy’, is a sunshine-infused pop celebration rich with Balearic rhythms, where Olly expresses the sensation of being ‘dizzy from your kisses’, with themes of love, especially forbidden love, woven throughout the 13 tracks.
Olly’s bold and charismatic nature shines brightly in ‘Polari’ – a reference to a coded slang historically utilized in the gay community to navigate the UK's harsh anti-homosexuality laws. The Polari language was revolutionary, providing a crucial means for the gay and queer community to voice their existence.
It’s clear that themes of belonging, visibility, and self-expression are pivotal to Olly’s debut album. It’s immediately obvious that he exudes pure joy, and with ‘Polari’, he feels completely at home.
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Produced by Danny L Harle, ‘Polari’ is an enchanting compilation of alt-pop that is assured, vibrant, and teeming with energy. It boldly emphasizes the necessity of authenticity. Starting with the exhilarating title track ‘Polari’, an electrifying piece of 80s fun, to the pop brilliance of ‘Make Me A Man’ where Olly addresses forbidden love and his desire for “a bite of the apple”, ‘Polari’ celebrates queer culture and the lively spirit of the LGBTQ+ community.
On ‘Heal You’, he demonstrates emotional depth and vulnerability, urging his love interest to ‘release the pressure’ and embrace their true self, affirming that ‘everyone should be heard’ – and they indeed should. It’s moving yet still deeply rooted in pop, poised to become a cherished Pride anthem akin to Erasure’s ‘A Little Respect’. With the legendary Vince Clarke collaborating on ‘Make Me A Man’, his influence is unmistakable throughout the album.
Combining delicacy with strength, ‘Polari’ is a self-assured debut from Olly, showcasing an expressive and euphoric selection of dance-ready, punchy tracks that radiate confidence, vibrancy, and charm.
7/10
Words: Emma Harrison
Like This? Explore Further: Years & Years, Erasure, Bronski Beat
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Olly Alexander, the ex-leader of the electro-pop band Years & Years, has returned with 'Polari' - a spirited and lively homage to all.