Cher Lloyd hasn't had an easy time in the popularity stakes since her stint on the UK Xfactor in 2010, in which she placed fourth. Her problem wasn't a lack of vocal talent (her abilities make her mentor Cheryl Cole sound like Paris Hilton), it was the rumor mill that spins out of control in the mid to latter stages of the TV competition. She was a brat, a bitch, this and that; she was a little diva with ideas above her station. Whether any of that is true is really neither here nor there, what matters is the music... right? So with the moderate success of her debut Sticks and Stones which saw some recognition in the US charts and a 2014 duet with Demi Lovato under her belt it seemed sensible time for album number two, Sorry I'm Late. Aptly named following the numerous delays that seemed to curse the album from its conception. Was it worth the wait?
Sorry I'm Late is a shameless pop record. Opener Just Be Mine and lead single I Wish (feat T.I.) state this clearly and are very likeable pop numbers. The former has an 'ahahahaaa' hook that quickly burns itself into your mind and the latter has a strong chorus and current arrangement, with Lloyd wishing she was taller and richer to get the man she wants. Bind Your Love is an album highlight, a really solid uptempo love song with a stadium worthy chorus, "When you call me/ I will always find you/ When you need me/ I'll come for you..." followed by a surprise electro-pop breakdown.
She hasn't ditched the wince worthy pop numbers that came on her debut though. Dirty Love and M.F.P.O.T.Y ooze the insolence the media would have you expect from Lloyd, dripping in playground chants and irritating lyrical links. Killin' It similarly reeks of adolescence, although not as pungently.
There are moments where Lloyd's vocals show the development associated with experience and maturity. Sirens, an epic anthem penned by Saturdays hitmaker Ina Wroldsen, starts with a steady drum beat, climbing to the chorus which explodes into an array of throbbing dance synths. Similarly brilliant is Human. Gorgeous vocals dripping with sincerity sit atop an enormous arrangement of echoing drum beats.
Sorry I'm Late isn't without its misfires. However, it's sporting enough pop gems to make it worth the wait and worth a listen and where it's really good, it's really bloody good.
3/5
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