Lady Sovereign - Jigsaw

Lady Sovereign’s sophomore effort has a lot to live up to. Her first album produced a U.S. number one single and established the 5ft 2in pocket dynamite as one of the most innovative female rappers in the world. This is Sovereign’s first release on her Midget Records label , though it proves why she towers above the competition. There is a wealth of diversity, from the sleazy electro of Let’s Be Mates to the twisted humour of Food Play. You'll even find some techno and ska thrown in for measure. The biggest surprise, however, is the title track, where Sovereign shows a rare emotional side and a competent singing ability. Think raging Lily Allen, but with more sincerity. If only more hip-hop records would dare to be this adventurous in 2009.