Album Review: Sam Smith - The Thrill of It All

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Sam Smith - The Thrill of It All (Capitol Records)

Released: November 3rd, 2017

English pop all-star and R&B soulful, Sam Smith, is back with his second full-length album, The Thrill of It All.

Known for his unique vocal talent and crooning abilities, Smith expands on this new record, using simple piano ballads and straightforward pop-production to showcase his talent.

As a fan of Smith and his presence within the pop-world, I was excited for a new record. I wanted to see if he can up-the-ante from his previous billboard topping tracks.

The lead track opens this album off in spectacular fashion. "Too Good at Goodbyes" is a lyrically sad tune, but with the production of a joyous pop record. The opening snaps to the gorgeous bridge-vocal melody create a wonderful feel and vibe. The wide chorus accompanied by a simple percussion pattern drives the song. Fantastic single.

Tracks that stand out to me due to their attractive drum presence include "One Last Song", "Midnight Train" and "Baby, You Make Me Crazy".

"One Last Song" is poppy with a punchy snare. The bounce throughout the track is rocking along side horn work and pianos. Smith's vocals on the verses and chorus bring the whole song to a center.

The kick-snare pattern on "Midnight Train" work nicely with the guitar work and vocal melody. A very smooth and gentle track. "Baby, You Make Me Crazy" is another solid track due to the overall vibe of the song. The drums have a great bounce while the guitar stabs work great with the consistent horn presence.

The other singles "Burning" and "Pray" are extremely solid pop-tracks.

Smith's voice rises above the silence and piano instrumentation on "Burning" to truly show is vocal talent and ability. The presence of extra vocal work towards the end of the song widen the track greatly. Very solid ballad.

"Pray" is great single with a very simple and sleek drum pattern. A few hi-hats with a kick and snare develop a contemporary R&B vibe which works perfectly with Smith's vocals. The cadence of his voice during the chorus is somewhat strange at first but becomes ever so comforting throughout. A church-esque choir provide assistance along the way making the song into an anthem.

One the most powerful tracks "HIM", Smith discusses his sexual orientation. He begs God to not be angry with him because it his a "HIM" that he loves. Other lyrics include...

"Say I shouldn't be here, but I can't give up his touch. It his him I love, it his him. Don't you try and tell me that God doesn't care for us. It is him I love, it is him I love"

Overall, this was a solid sophomore album from Sam Smith. He again exemplifies why is voice is so infectious, powerful and beautiful. He tackles soft R&B/Pop instrumentals while crooning his feelings and experiences for the world to hear. The production is simple but neat, not sounding "off" or rugged once.

Also, there aren't too many misses on this album. Each track can hold its own weight with ease while the singles standout. For those who are Sam Smith fans, this album is a must listen. And for those who enjoy straightforward R&B/Pop, checkout this record. Sam Smith doesn't hold anything back and delivers on his second album. Listen below...


Genre: Pop/Contemporary R&B/Soul/Singer/Songwriter/Ballad

Rating: 7/10

Fav Songs: Too Good at Goodbyes, Say It First, One Last Song, Midnight Train, Burning, Pray




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