I think it's a great album.
The production is the sleekest she's ever done, and I thought Matangi would hold that title forever. Considering it has so many songs I thought either they'd start sounding samey or it would be too long but with only 3 deletions (Go Off, AMP and Fly Pirate) I was pleasantly surprised.
I can't believe critics were relatively harsh on it, but then I kind of can. It's very *expected* for M.I.A. to deliver this particular album. But that doesn't make it any less wonderful. Bird Song, both versions, are superb but Diplo's edges for me.
I actually think the lyrics are misunderstood, she's not making "mindless bops" and then infusing the lyrics with meaning, I think she's just writing with immigration & other current issues on her mind constantly so they're woven in no matter what she's talking about. It makes it cohesive.