Any Human Friend is the third album from Marika Hackman, blending together the songwriter’s usual humorous and clever lyricism with a bolder use of synth. But what impresses most is Marika’s expression of lesbian sexuality. When your creepy uncle hears that an album contains lyrics about lesbian sex, he may well rub his hands on his thighs and make some kind of weird “gurr” sound. Alas, he would be grossly disappointed here.
This album does not come off as some overly-grotesque audio porno, but rather a beautiful exploration of sexuality, longing and selfish desire. Marika bares all in a blunted stance of lyricism with lines like “rub me ‘til my ego is raw” and “our mouths are just for eating” – there’s a passionate warmth throughout, which can definitely lead to feelings of being a bit hot under the collar.
We even get treated to a wank anthem! Yes, the glorious ‘Hand Solo’ is a double-edged sword: on one hand detailing the euphoric pleasure of masturbation, while also calling out the misogynistic belief that if sex as a woman doesn’t involve a man, then you’re still a virgin.
To finish, the instrumentals on ‘Any Human Friend’ seem to adapt and submit to the will of the lyrics, using sudden, pulsating bursts of tempo to mirror adrenaline rushes, or splashes of synth textures to mirror sentiments of pure euphoria.
Marika Hackman brings a truly consistent and affecting record that explores romantic and sexual complexities, breaking down barriers of the lesbian sexual taboo.
Haiku Review
Any Human Friend,
Sexual Complexities,
Marika is back,
