Blondie is an iconic household name of unprecedented magnitude, with a career spanning over forty years and countless worldwide sales under their belt. Now they are back with a new record, Pollinator, which has secured them as being more than worthy of holding such legendary status.

The record starts with ‘Doom Or Destiny’, an initial pounding drum beat sets the tone. The track is a stunning reintroduction to the band and to hear the return of singer Debbie Harry is simply awesome. Debbie’s tones bring an instant sense of familiarity and reminiscence that many older fans will particularly have missed. The song’s angsty tones, dismal, yet somewhat optimistic imagery and intricate melodies are all fantastic The stunning guitar solo towards the end of the track makes for a brilliant first number that catches the ear.

From here, the record seems to only grow in strength. Each track brings something completely different from the last, whilst still feeling incredibly Blondie at heart. ‘Long Time’ uses almost dance-like tones with aspects of modern pop creeping in but, still hold that electric bite that the 70s and 80s were renowned for. Contrasting to this, later number, ‘When I Gave Up On You’ emphasises an entirely different aspect to Debbie’s vocals that make this album such an easy listen from cover to cover. This track has an almost folky vibe and brought forth a slower pace that was definitely needed to break up the rest of the record.

The level of production and subtle intricacies behind the album are simply sublime and each track seems to hold a distinctive quirk that really sets it a part from the rest. Whilst some feature alternatively subtle or dominant synths, others use high levels of distortion over Debbie’s vocals which really add a spark to her already unmistakable tones.

For 71, Debbie is still going stronger than ever. Her vocals and passion have by no means slipped across her entire career. Tracks such as ‘Gravity’ and ‘Already Naked’ still equal the levels of passion and anger from older tracks, like the classic ‘One Way Or Another’, yet the two could not be more different in sound. The varying tones across the entirety of the album do make it feel like more of a journey throughout the band’s entire career, whilst still bringing something completely new to the table.

‘Fragments’, the final number on the record, takes the top spot for me and holds a level of passion that could make up an entire album in itself. The seven minute track seems to effortlessly tie in everything that Pollinator is about, demonstrating every aspect of Blondie’s talents. The initial slower, sombre atmosphere and Debbie’s use of powerhouse vocals are simply mesmerising and set up the rest of the song. The sudden transition into an upbeat, pulsing baseline and accompanying piano, fill the song with life and demonstrate everything that Blondie stand for. A badass message with an immense level of emotion. The track ties the rest of the record together in a beautiful package, and is one of the strongest ending numbers I have ever come across. A fantastic end to an otherwise fantastic album.

I can certainly see many being incredibly happy with Pollinator and for those who haven't listened to Blondie in a while, the record acts as a tremendous reintroduction to the artist. The strong level of nostalgia will undoubtedly have many uncontrollably dancing around their rooms, whilst newer fans will still be able to appreciate the striking integration between such an iconic artist and new wave music. Pollinator is definitely worth listening to and earns a well deserved spot within my top albums of the year thus far.
Ben Walker

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