7/10

During the peak of their fame in the early 2000s, there was hardly a time in which we weren't completely inundated with Gossip's output. Their breakthrough hit 'Standing In The Way Of Control' stood as one of the indie anthems of the decade, and cemented them in the history books as one of the most admired names during that era. And after a full twelve years since their last studio LP 'A Joyful Noise', they have now returned to deliver their long-awaited sixth album 'Real Power', a record that looks to reinvent them for a modern ear.

While some of that familiar high-energy, disco-inspired groove remains a staple of this new collection, Gossip seem more keen in exploring a more multifaceted direction for their eagerly-awaited comeback. Blending their traditional aesthetic with bluesier and more alluring textures as often as possible, 'Real Power' sees them return to the fold with some brilliantly inventive ideas, some of which really pack a punch on this return.

It may not be the bold and bombastic arrival many would have hoped for, but 'Real Power' still manages to find and develop plenty of interesting concepts and ambitions in order to keep it as fresh as possible. Maintaining a bright and lofty appeal throughout, it almost feels like they never left us in the first place.