Sia’s new album, 1000 Forms of Fear, is all about revival, a direct reflection of her personal comeback from her chaotic past.
Although Sia’s music is generally considered pop, this album provides the listener an honest and emotional glimpse into Sia’s life, something not often found in a typical pop record. In this album, she ties together the thematic elements of fear and chaos drawn from the events of her past into her belief of a stronger future into a coherent album.
When the release of “Breathe Me” in 2005 shot Sia into viral popularity, it was also the beginning of the singer’s downfall. As her manager forced her into promotions and publicity, the reclusive star retreated farther and farther into herself, developing a heavy addiction to drugs and alcohol. After a trying rehabilitation process, she has become an incredibly prolific behind-the-scenes songwriter, writing hugely popular songs like “Diamonds” by Rihanna and “Wild Ones” by Flo Rida.
However, this summer marked the release of “Chandelier,” Sia’s first solo single since 2010. This song, one of her most popular hits from the album, showcases her ability to hit soaring vocals. It also demonstrates her mastery of pairing lyrics and a swinging beat together to produce a captivating piece of music. The song seems to delve into the emptiness and desperation she was feeling during her period of mental fragility and the shame of her own weaknesses.
In the “Chandelier” music video, Sia’s fear of the media and its effects on her are clear in her decision to not appear in the video. Instead, the main feature is talented eleven-year-old Maddie Ziegler, star of the popular reality TV show “Dance Moms.” In the video, Ziegler dances through a decrepit house, wearing nothing but a platinum blond bob and a nude leotard. The choreography is frenzied and Ziegler does an amazing job portraying the almost psychotic Sia on the verge of her emotional breakdown.
While “Chandelier” is an image of Sia’s lowest points in her life, “Elastic Heart” focuses on her triumphs. Sia’s utilization of her moody voice and dramatic vocals make this song a highlight of the album. By layering the background of the song with haunting cries and distinct instruments, she creates a piece that reveals that her fight for peace is not over. The song is the epitome of comeback music.
“Burning Pages” is decisively one of the most upbeat songs in this album. With a rallying, defiant message and buoyant, cheerful sound, it projects a happier, more optimistic Sia. Out of all her music in the album it is the most reminiscent of a typical pop song with its victorious, anthem-like quality but nonetheless still goes along with the emotionally candid nature of the album.
Sia has seamlessly strung together captivating songs that each bring their own glimpse into her reclusive mind. What makes each song unique is her compelling lyrics. Sia has an incredible gift for putting all of her failures and triumphs into music that touches listeners in a rare, honest way. Sia’s poetic nature with words and hypnotic voice give her an alluring persona and ultimately make her a captivating artist.
