Swedish Norwegian popstar/DJ Annie charmed us with her catchy, well-written, if not entirely original, songs in 2004 with her debut album “Anniemal.” We liked about 50% of the songs, which is more than we can say for most pop music releases, and the combination of Madonna, Kylie, and Lisa-Lisa influences was just perfect.
We saw Annie in concert last year, and as sweet as she is, we have to give the performance a rating of “absolutely dull.” She needs to lose the corded mic, wear some more comfortable shoes, and dance (or get dancers). Still, we chalk it up to nerves and inexperience, and must note that her singing was impeccable.
So we were very excited to find out that Annie is hard at work with The Smashing Pumpkins‘ James Iha on a new album that she wants to put out before the end of the year. There will be some “more club-oriented” songs that still sound “80s, but different,” but the most important news is that she will be covering “Two of Hearts” by Stacey Q, who is one of Queerty’s all-time favorite pop sensations. It’s impossible that Annie’s version will be as good as the original, but the homage is cute and if it means “Two of Hearts” will be on the radio again, then we approve.
Annie Working With James Iha, Alan Braxe on New LP [Pitchfork]
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