As I enjoyed La Roux's eponymously titled debut album, I decided to pre-order the box set of the much delayed follow up "Trouble In Paradise". As well as the vinyl there was a signed CD, a code to redeem mp3 files and a T shirt. The original specification for the box set included nine (yes, nine)
matchboxes, but unsurprisingly these were swapped out for a signed and
numbered lithographic print instead. The box has unique artwork and is individually numbered. I was really looking forward to receiving it.
However, when the box set arrived in July 2014 I was left rather disappointed. It seems trouble doesn't only occur in paradise; it happens on vinyl too. There's no other way of saying it, but, this album isn't very good.
I think it is fair to say that the success of the first album brought considerable pressure on band members Ellie and Ben. This pressure culminated in a split that meant La Roux was a solo project by the time this record was released. The break up of the group was in part due to Ellie's desire to introduce acoustic instruments and lean towards a more funk and disco influenced sound for the second outing. Unfortunately this change of direction didn't suit Ben and it seemed to leave many fans behind too. I went to a concert on the tour that supported this album and the contrast between the old material and the new was quite stark when they were laid side by side.
