Kylie Minogue won't be remembered as the most innovative artist in music but with Body Language she shows courage. It would have been easy to carbon copy her Fever album and pick up from where she left off, but no, Kylie has 'guts'. She's embraced the 80s-clash electro sounds that have seen acts like Ladytron and Peaches rise to the surface. It's still a very commercial album, so no fans will be shedding any tears; it's not as far removed from the club scene as Impossible Princess, so put those tissues away. Slow is a real 'grower' and keeps creeping into my psyche but next time Kylie makes a video I'd like to see about 100 less dudes in Speedos, thanks. Some may have imagined the single as an aberration. No, Kylie is consistent and offers a stylised sound on each album. This is no exception. Ms Minogue even tries a constricted version of rappin' on Secret (Take You Home) and I must say, it may be very white but it's also kind of sexy- she sounds like a Caucasian version of Lil' Kim. Production is sparse but carefully constructed, ranging from ancient electro to lighter house to unadulterated R&B.; The Afro vibe sinks in with Red Blooded Woman, which sounds as custom-built for the American market as any R Kelly track. It's not only the music that fits a groove; it's also Kylie's voice. You know that cute little falsetto she occasionally breaks into? She's mastered it. It's no secret that I intend to steal Kylie of Olivier, but I'd be satisfied with taking her voice out on a date. For now, I'll have to be satisfied with Body Language. The more passionate devotees will be desperate to get their hands on the Australian version of Body Language. As always, Kylie has added an extra treat for her fellow Aussies in the form of a bonus track: Slo Motion.

Browse the ENCYCLOPEDIA of Australian Rock & Pop

Tracklisting
1 SLOW
2 STILL STANDING
3 SECRET (TAKE YOU HOME)
4 PROMISES
5 SWEET MUSIC
6 RED BLOODED WOMAN
7 CHOCOLATE
8 OBSESSION
9 I FEEL FOR YOU
10 SOMEDAY
11 LOVING DAYS
12 AFTER DARK
13 SLO MOTION (OZ EXCLUSIVE BONUS TRACK)

Full listing of KYLIE MINOGUE releases