Faith And Courage
Throughout much of her career, Sinéad O'Connor's personal torments and passions have been played out in public, frequently overshadowing the poetry of her music. The tabloid-fueling antics that led up toFaith and Couragecreated the perception of a woman on the fringe, but this album redirects attention back on her considerable talents.Faith and Courageunveils the rebellious Irishwoman as a sexy, vulnerable, emotional artist who's stared down her demons and is ready to revel in her triumphs. The album'syou go, girlsentiment is pumped up by strong R&B; and hip-hop elements. Its crisp acoustic guitar arpeggios and air-tight beats (think TLC'sFanmail) snap like the crack of a belt on "Daddy I'm Fine," "'Til I Whisper U Something," and "Dancing Lessons."Brian Eno,EurythmicDave Stewart, bassistJah Wobble, andWyclef Jeanhelp O'Connor leverage the album's radio-ready rhythms into everything from power pop to Celtic mysticism. Lyrically, O'Connor acknowledges her periodic lack of judgment, but makes no apologies, opting instead to carry the torch for feminine sexuality, financial independence, soul searching, and her right to shave her head, wear leather boots, rock out, and still be a good mother. In other words, Sinead brings home the bacon and fries it up in a pan, millennium style.--Beth Massa