Exploring Sophie Ellis-Bextor’s Vibrant Comeback with ‘Saltburn’ and Disco-Pop

The Evolution of Sophie Ellis-Bextor: Celebrating Perimenopop

Nearly 25 years after proclaiming she’d “burn this goddamn house right down,” Sophie Ellis-Bextor remains a defining figure in disco-pop. Now, she embraces a new phase with her album Perimenopop, which joyfully reflects her forties with the same vibrant energy that defined her earlier hits.

The Meaning Behind Perimenopop

Ellis-Bextor initially intended to title her album The Invisible Line, evoking a more poetic concept about life’s transitions. However, she realized that the title might lead to endless explanations. She shared, “Perimenopop was a jokey title that I couldn’t shake, and it fits the pop genre so well. While it isn’t strictly about perimenopause, it speaks to the conversations and expectations faced at this age, which can sometimes feel daunting.”

With Perimenopop, Ellis-Bextor feels liberated to be her true self, shedding any pretense of youthfulness that pop music often imposes on older women. “Pop culture tends to idolize youth and dismiss age. I embrace my life as a 20-year married mother of five and feel proud to be in my forties,” she explained.

Musical Journey and Collaborations

Released through Decca, Perimenopop includes previous singles such as “Freedom of the Night,” “Relentless Love,” and “Vertigo,” alongside her latest track, “Taste.” This new single marks a confident return to her signature disco-pop sound. Collaborating with MNEK and Jon Shave, the upbeat song leads to an infectious chorus that captures the essence of celebration.

The album is a delightful revival of her dancefloor roots. Even before her 2001 hit gained renewed interest, Ellis-Bextor envisioned creating a disco-pop collection filled with shimmering synths and playful narratives. “Writing is like exploring a massive dress-up box, finding joy in creativity,” she enthused, highlighting the thrill of transforming an empty day into a new song.

Sharing Wisdom Through Disco-Pop

For Ellis-Bextor, disco-pop transcends mere escapism; it carries wisdom she wants to impart. She acknowledges the influences of older female artists who paved the way, stating, “Many of my favorite disco songs are cautionary tales from women who have lived through experiences. For instance, Candi Staton’s ‘Young Hearts Run Free’ embodies wisdom rather than youthful naivety.”

You might wonder how Ellis-Bextor balances her past with her present. On one hand, she revels in her work on Perimenopop, while on the other, she witnesses the resurgence of “Murder on the Dancefloor,” fueled by its inclusion in the 2023 film Saltburn and a viral cover by Royel Otis.

An Exciting Experience at the Festival

Her excitement about the trail her career has taken is palpable. Sharing a highlight from Reading Festival, she recalled joining Royel Otis on stage to perform her classic hit. “It was hilarious as we just rehearsed it once in the dressing room—but it was good enough!” she laughed, cherishing the moment of wearing her dazzling disco dress at the festival.

Despite the surreal nature of her current success, Ellis-Bextor sees it as fortuitous timing that aligns perfectly with her album’s release, stating, “That moment helped propel Perimenopop in such a wonderful way.”

Have you listened to Perimenopop yet? What do you think of Sophie Ellis-Bextor’s powerful return to the disco-pop scene?