An album with an elusive sense of beauty...
30 · 04 · 2025
Sally Potter is a true multitalented artist. She is a filmmaker, writer, political activist, singer, and songwriter. Throughout her remarkable career, she has navigated some of the most intriguing and significant moments in history. On ‘Anatomy’, her sophomore album, Potter presents a series of songs with meanings that remain ambiguous. Are they reflections on relationships, the environment, or cinematic moments captured in three minutes? This ambiguity is what makes ‘Anatomy’ so captivating.
‘Anatomy’ is a striking album. The songs feature long, intricate lyrics. In ‘Words’, Potter sings, “words matter.” The album serves as a reminder to express feelings openly, whether for better or worse, before it’s too late. ‘Carmageddon’ stands out as the most rebellious track on the album. ‘Walk Away’ has a delightful jazzy rhythm, characterized by a playful bassline, erratic drumming, quirky guitar, and spontaneous piano that create a sense of disarray rather than perfect harmony. There’s a vastness to the sound, which allows Potter’s stunning vocals to shine. “If you don’t like the truth,” she sings, “Walk away.” Is this a message for anyone who dismisses facts as “fake news,” an ex-partner facing the reasons for a breakup, or someone who rejects the realities of the climate crisis? The absence of a definitive interpretation adds to the song's pleasure.
Potter's singing voice is not traditionally melodic; it lies somewhere between spoken word and a gentle singing style, holding notes briefly. This vocal approach adds immediacy to the songs, allowing listeners to grasp the more lyrically dense tracks. Her delivery is reminiscent of artists like Yoko Ono, cabaret performers, Billie Holiday, Marianne Faithfull, and Patti Smith. ‘Anatomy’ is not an album to be fully appreciated on the first listen. The blending of piano and guitar in ‘Words’ may be overlooked initially. It requires an openness to the music and a willingness to immerse oneself in it. With repeated listens, new melodies and vocal nuances begin to emerge. The essence of the album is clear – ‘words matter’. And when they are as beautifully crafted as these, they truly do!
7/10
Words: Nick Roseblade
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Sally Potter is a versatile talent. She is a filmmaker, author, political activist, singer, and songwriter. Her career has been one of those highly regarded paths, spanning one of the most