Album Review: This is Acting

"I'm gonna swing from the chandelier, from the chandelier..." Known for her impressive high-pitched and powerful vocal register, Sia Furler has just released her seventh studio album entitled “This is Acting” in January. This blockbuster album features some songs that she had written but were, sadly, cast aside by some of the A-listers. Although these songs did not make the cut for these artistes, some are still worth a listen! The first in line in the reel of outtakes was “Bird Set Free”- a song that was written for Pitch Perfect 2 initially, but was subsequently replaced by Jessie J’s Flashlight. The piano accompaniment introduces the listeners into a grey world as Sia’s voice continues to illustrate the story of struggles with unwavering attention from the listeners. It is no wonder that this song is one of the crowd favourites. Hit the forward button and you would feel “Alive” after listening to this track. The album lead single, “Alive”, was one of Adele’s reject. Nonetheless, it is another song that ascertains Sia’s outstanding vocal abilities- it would be no surprise if her high notes could empower the dead and bring them back to life. Move Your Body is another highlight of this album. It may remind you of Lady Gaga’s classics even though it was a track composed for Shakira. The song will lure you to the dance floor as soon as you hear the beat. It is a party must-have! Cheap Thrills is another piece that deviates slightly from Sia’s usual electropop style, but it does not disappoint. Originally written for Rihanna, this song has a tropical beat and her signature high notes were omitted for this one. Yet the piece is one that will get people grooving to the beat. ​ Although the rest of the album is a little short of expectations, you can’t deny that the first half of the album is worth several hits on the replay button.