Capitol Records
After becoming one of the UK’s unexpected breakout stars of 2007, Lily Allen reveled in her celebrity status by fighting, drinking and cursing in public as much as possible. The loudmouth Londoner returns with It’s Not Me, It’s You, a set of poppy affirmations of the 22-year-old’s talent. Allen questions party drug culture on the opener “Everyone’s At It“ over a synth groove that’s equal parts Timbaland and Thompson Twins; “22” seems to be equally inspired by The Beatles and Naked Eyes’ version of “Always Something There to Remind Me.” But, Allen is just as snarky as ever — albeit slightly world-weary — and that makes her musical meltdowns intriguing. –todd williams
