If stepping into a club in a sequinned body suit and a pair of Nike trainers was a song, this would be it. It has a confident, unapologetic opener. Lyrics like: “No need to panic, switch the dynamic / You can have it all tonight” don’t just ease you into the track but catapult listeners into the centre of its catchy beat, making them feel as if they are in the centre of a dance-floor.
The pre-chorus slows everything down, albeit briefly. This however provides the opportunity to appreciate Chisholm’s superb vocal control and unique tone - it was always her vocals that stood out the most in many of the Spice Girls’ biggest hits. She can go from using a dramatic belt to vocal fry and cry in just a matter of seconds, with no real key change required.
The chorus comes in early, just before the one-minute mark. However, the track really benefits from this varied pacing. Then, comes the next lot of lyrics that you cannot help but love. “Come on let’s have it / Every night it’s a Friday, right?” is a line that proves simple lyrics are certainly effective. After all, it’s Chisholm’s established vocal power and passionate breakbeats that make this a standout track.
‘Attitude’ is around three minutes long and packs more than a punch. It feels rebellious but not harsh or bitter. It is charming, self-consciously flamboyant but not corny. It really is a showstopper and a party-starter!
The ethos of the track, and the forthcoming album, really reflects that of Sophie Ellis Bextor’s ‘Perimenopop’ era. It reminds anyone that needs to hear it that dance, pop, letting loose and living every night like it is a Friday does not stop once you reach a certain age. Fellow Spice Girl, Geri Halliwell aka Ginger Spice, made everyone ‘Scream If You Wanna Go Faster’ in the noughties. Sporty has just made us all do the same thing in the 2020s, but has just got us to be a little louder. Long live Spice Girl supremacy!
Cory Gourley
Image: 'Attitude' Official Single Cover