CITYist

M.I.A.’s recently released single for song “XXXO” is in no way comparable to the controversial Born Free video. But that’s not a bad thing. Perhaps this is a way for the artist to “take a chill pill” between tweeting the phone numbers of harsh critics and instilling fear into gingers of the world. Whatever the reason, the song’s catchy tune and crazy gaudy graphics are, dare we say—fun? M.I.A.’s signature 80s style—gold lamé, red lips, hoop earrings—are scene throughout, but this has to be the most glam we’ve seen her in a video. It actually looks like a bad Myspace page in motion. But surely that’s the point. What do you guys think?

M.I.A. is no stranger to controversy, and she has made sure the two are practically bedfellows with her new video for “Born Free.” Part political statement, part dystopian vision, the video may be the most violent, graphic and thought-provoking you’ll see this year—and has already been banned from Youtube. Oh, and red-heads, brace yourselves. You’ll get that after you watch.