Vivien Goldman - Dirty Washing

Review by I Shu Weng

Dirty Washing, the latest album by Vivien Goldman, is a refreshing and powerful collection of tracks that explore themes of love, loss, and social justice. The album showcases Goldman's unique blend of reggae, punk, and pop sensibilities, and features a range of guest musicians and collaborators, including members of The Slits, The Raincoats, and Chaka Khan.

From the opening track "I Have a Voice," which features a driving reggae beat and Goldman's soaring vocals, to the closing track "Private Armies," a powerful meditation on the dangers of corporate power and militarization, Dirty Washing is an album that demands attention and engagement from the listener.

Throughout the album, Goldman's lyrics are sharp and incisive, tackling issues such as police brutality, gentrification, and the refugee crisis with a potent mix of anger and empathy. Tracks like "Launderette," a scathing critique of the gendered nature of domestic labor, and "Eden," a haunting meditation on the destruction of the natural world, showcase Goldman's ability to combine political commentary with poetic imagery and emotional resonance.

Summary by I Shu Weng

Dirty Washing is a powerful and timely album that showcases Goldman's unique talents as a songwriter, vocalist, and social critic. It is a must-listen for anyone interested in contemporary music that engages with the pressing issues of our time.