by Elizabeth Goldberg
It’s been four years, but she’s back.
On Nov. 20, British singer-songwriter Adele Adkins (commonly known as just Adele) has finally released a long awaited new album since “21” (Rolling in the Deep, Rumor Has it, etc.).
The new album titled “25” features eleven full length songs, with an additional three on the deluxe edition.
The first song of the album, “Hello,” was released as a single before the album dropped. “Hello” was popular and as of Dec. 21, has been holding the Billboard Hot 100’s number one spot for the seventh week in a row.
Every song on this album was written or co-written with Adkins, and her usual style of soulful reminiscence and lyrical wisdom is prominent in this work. But, Adele’s mood is seemingly more upbeat or sassy in some places, compared to her last two albums.
Her previous albums focused on heartbreak and loss, but this album has many instances of celebration and joy after the birth of her son.
A few songs in particular stuck out.
The second track on the album, “Send My Love (To Your New Lover),” utilizes her vocals in a different style than usual. This song has a more upbeat feel to it compared to her usual ballads and has a powerful sass to it. The lyrics talk about letting go of an old relationship, and the voice of the song seems to become more powerful now that they’ve moved on.
Another notable song is “A Million Years Ago.” The delicate guitar-led ballad’s beautiful lyrics gives this song such a depth only attainable by such an accomplished singer-songwriter. The emotion is practically dripping from her vocals, and its intensity is paralyzingly intricate and alluring. This piece showcases how effortless her technique is.
“Hello” being the only single from this album definitely stands out as well, given that the vocals use Adele’s wide range in a heartbreakingly beautiful way.
“Love In The Dark” has some of the best lyrics of the entire album.
“I can’t love you in the dark/ It feels like we’re oceans apart/
There is so much space between us/ Maybe we’re already defeated”
The entire album is so emotional and breathtaking, with every song hitting home with at least someone. Her messages are so personal, and that adds to the depth of the music. It is hard to believe that the voice emanating from Adele belongs to the 25-year-old British bombshell; she sounds like she is someone who has lived through a hundred years of love and loss.
Adele’s album continues to stay on the charts after its release, proving how well received it is as a whole. “25” is a quality album and continues to prove Adele’s vocal technique is like no other. Definitely pick up a copy and have a listen when you can because this is something anyone with a good taste in music needs to experience.