Album Review: Missy Higgins The Ol Razzle Dazzle

Missy Higgins' much-lauded comeback record is as transparent as her recent media interviews explaining how a troubled relationship with music and fame led to her five-year absence. And though the name of her third record, The Ol' Razzle Dazzle, suggests a somewhat insincere reconciliation with the two, opening track, Set Me On Fire, puts aside any misgivings, building on a backdrop of writer's block in minor tones before a glorious chorus unfolds: “Melody you're the only one who saves me”. Whether referencing music directly, or through themes of darkness, reckless behaviour and a crisis of confidence, Higgins' personal journey is documented thoroughly, the pressure point opening wide in the bittersweet ballad, Everyone's Waiting: “Remember this ain't for you it's for them”.

The first half of the record is tempered strategically with co-writes, particularly with Dan Wilson (Adele, Dixie Chicks) and co-producer Butterfly Boucher, who had a hand in the album's big single, Unashamed Desire – a key point where Higgins, done with the self-analysis of All In My Head and Watering Hole, turns the corner and starts clean: “I don't wanna waste time holding down the truth/I've got everything to win and only pain to lose/This is my unashamed desire”. It's a simple structure made memorable with percussive quirks, thumping piano and a raw as hell sentiment. Elsewhere, Temporary Love mixes the devices of balladry – mournful strings and slow tinkling piano notes – with an almost '80s disco flavour, whilst Tricks is full of pop delight and Higgins' trademark way with lyrical melody.

The Ol' Razzle Dazzle signifies much more than a return to form for Higgins; it's a true state of musical being through confrontation and collaboration.