Melanie C - Sweat

Tracks: Sweat; Drum Machine; What Could Possibly Go Wrong?; Til It Breaks; Pressure; Emotional Memory; Attitude; Good For Nothing; Undefeated Champion; Cashmere; Free To Love; One Track Mind; Flick Of The Wrist

Label: Red Girl

To date the Spice Girls have released 18 solo studio albums, half of which belong to Melanie C. As she releases her ninth studio album, the most consistent of the solo spices, she looks determined to reclaim her title of Sporty Spice. Aptly titled Sweat, the album has been accompanied by a wealth of fitness-inspired imagery, and she has been outspoken about finally feeling comfortable in her own skin at the age of 52. Having really dominated the radio waves with her latest single releases, does the album live up to the pre-release traction of those teasers?

Sweat is an album that lives up to its title. Melanie C has made something of a name for herself with her dance-leaning anthems, and Sweat is chock-a-block full of them. Yet, these aren't just meaningless dance floor anthems with filler lyrics; she has retained the honesty of her lyrical approach that has become something of a signature of her solo releases.

Thematically, Sweat, does not just broach comfort within one's own skin, but it deals with perception, relationships and acceptance. These are, of course, well-trodden subjects within lyrics, but Melanie C delivers her journey of self-exploration and acceptance with a sincerity that is rarely found at this level in dance music. The choruses hit hard, but the heart and soul hits even harder.

That being said, this is by no means a weighty listen. It is designed for the dancefloor and for those hardcore workouts (even if that is just an epic danceathon while doing the dishes), and it boasts a huge amount of singability, which is key for any house-leaning record.

Having previously explored musical theatre, indie pop and r'n'b within her records, her move towards a more dance-driven sound over her last few records is really solidified on this record, which should crown her as one of the contemporary scene's most exciting dance soloists.

Sweat was designed to make you sweat in the best way possible.