With the success of her debut album, Lights, on the Billboard charts, Ellie Goulding faced high expectations as she released her second album, Halcyon, on the ninth of October. Over the past few years, Goulding gained attention after performing at the Royal Wedding reception, winning a Brit award, having a number one pop album in the United States, and a rumored relationship with DJ Skrillex. Critics have compared her voice to fellow British act Florence Welch, of Florence + The Machine, and tagged her with the potential to become the new Adele. It comes as no surprise that on her new album, Goulding works to tell us about her journey and show a new, more mature side of herself as she has grown and reflects on all that has happened in her life.
The unique aspect to Goulding's music is that she is able to mix pop music and electronic music so masterfull. This is why her single, "Lights," is a stand out on the charts. On this album, she continues to use this skill, but makes use of tribal-like drums for a new sound. Catchy songs like "Don't Say A Word," "Anything Can Happen," and "Only You" mirror the influences that Goulding built herself upon and they make use of her strong yet airy voice to capture the listener's attention. Synthesizers are also a big part of the Goulding style and using less of this instrument, in comparison to the first album, showcases a haunting and raw voice that has grown stronger.
A risk that Goulding was willing to take on Halcyon was working with two diverse artists to create music. "I Need Your Love," featuring DJ Calvin Harris, stays strict to Goulding's style with synthesizers and incorporates dubstep from Harris. "Hanging On," featuring British rapper Tinie Tempah, is the clear winner with its catchy lyrics and an exceptional rap from Tempah. Fans of the two featured artists ought to be pleased with a job well done as the songs are well executed and add to Goulding's reputation as an artist worth working with.
Going back to her roots, Goulding recorded her album in her hometown of Herefordshire, England, and the topics of her new songs reflect an emotional past. Lyrics full of connotations about war, loneliness, and heartbreak make the album, at times, dark and gloomy, particularly towards the end of the album, where songs blend together in a pit of sadness. The pain and roughness evident in Goulding's voice goes to show that her journey has been long, but one that has shaped who she is, as she acknowledges happy and sorrowful times.
Stepping out from the spotlight of her debut into the music industry, it is clear that Ellie Goulding has matured from her Lights days. She has great potential to succeed as she demonstrates that she has strong and emotional vocals and a sense of who she is. Like the title Halcyon suggests, Goulding is calm, at peace, happy, and carefree, knowing what kind of music she wants to make.
Source: http://www.thesuffolkvoice.net/arts-entertainment/britain-s-goulden-girl-1.2957731
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