‘Dark Horse’, Katy Perry’s latest release from Prism, is a world away from earlier singles ‘Roar’ and ‘Unconditionally’. It is (if you’ll pardon the pun) far darker than what you’d expect from the Teenage Dream singer with its fusion of dubstep, grime, and pretty much whatever other genres could be thrown into this witches’ brew.
It’s impossible to ignore the similarities with her older song, ‘E.T’, which featured Kanye West. The electronic riff, the rapper’s verse, singalong chorus… However, ‘E.T’ was a well-produced slice of pop that worked because it was energetic and different to other things at the time.
‘Dark Horse’ is a “mature” attempt at a formula that was just about memorable the first time that it was tried. Perry’s dark lyrics and fairly restrained vocals would be successful if not for Juicy J’s contribution. Yes, it does break up the monotony, but lyrics like, “She can be my Sleeping Beauty/I’m gon’ put her in a coma” only lessen the appeal of this average track.
Overall, a forgettable release with great potential for remixes.
4/10
‘Dark Horse’ is available for download now on Capitol Records
