Hormonally Yours - 30th Anniversary ［CD+DVD］

In keeping with the album's title, inspired by the pregnant state of the duo, Shakespear's Sister's second album is prone to mood swings and a flair for the dramatic. It's a vibe that benefits from the contrast between the throaty vocals of Siobahn Fahey and the falsetto flutter of Marcella Detroit. Hormonally Yours is a wonderful, charming album marred only by a few weak lyrics. Still, there is hardly a song that isn't engaging from the first listen. "Goodbye Cruel World" is infectious alternative pop. "I Don't Care" is bouncy and resilient, and "Let Me Entertain You" has a new wave feel and sardonic lyrics. "Catwoman" has a T. Rex swagger to it and "Hello (Turn Your Radio On)" is a stellar glam-tinged ballad with a dreamy chorus. They edge closer to dance on the disco ball funk of "Are We in Love Yet?" and the sultry, R&B-laced "Emotional Thing." Everything was lost in the wake of the lovely, dramatic "Stay," a global smash. It all adds up to make Hormonally Yours a beautifully quirky, emotionally rich, and nearly flawless pop record. ~ Tom Demalon