Artist: M.I.A.
Release: 7/2010
Label: XL Recordings

1. “The Message” – N/A
2. “Steppin Up” – C
3. “XXXO” – C-
4. “Teqkilla” – C+
5. “Lovalot” – C-
6. “Story To Be Told” – C+
7. “It Takes a Muscle” – B
8. “It Iz What It Iz” – C
9. “Born Free” – C-
10. “Meds and Feds” – D+
11. “Tell Me Why” – C+
12. “Space” – C

Comments: “Carried away” in studio. That’s truth. For the most part this album is an experimental mess. Not totally experimental, though. It’s like an electronica album (2/3 of it, at least) with vocals. Some of the more stripped down tracks like the dub/reggae cover “It Takes a Muscle” and the mellow “Space” are easier to digest. Unless, of course, schizophrenic beats are your thing. The repetition and hectic flavor of most of the tunes on here are discomfiting aspects of the listening experience. I honestly haven’t struggled with as many albums as this one.

Grade: C (75)