The Daily Gamecock

Review: Ellie Goulding's new album disappoints

<p></p>

Modeling a large fur coat and a bare chest, pop sensation Ellie Goulding leaves little to the imagination on the cover of her new album “Delirium.” Known for her haunting rhythms and sharp lyrics, Goulding’s highly anticipated third studio album was released on Nov. 6.

Having appeared alongside friend and fellow musician Taylor Swift, in her infamous “Bad Blood” music video, 2015 has already proven to be a big year for Goulding.

“Delirium” offers a myriad of tracks including Goulding’s smash hits “On My Mind,” as well as her single “Love Me Like You Do,” which was famously used in many of the promotions for the movie "Fifty Shades of Grey."

A native of Hereford, England, 28-year-old Goulding is no stranger to fame as she gained a mass band of fans following the re-release of her second studio album “Halcyon Days” in August of 2013.

As a result of the success of her first two albums, many had high hopes for Goulding’s latest project, but sadly this album seemed to fall flat.

Despite the inclusion of sixteen different tracks, “Delirium” lacks both diversity and depth. With repetitive lyrics and mediocre rhythms, Goulding’s latest project is generic, failing to set her apart from the countless other female pop artists in the industry.

The strongest track on the album is none other than “On My Mind.” Produced by musical icon Max Martin, “On My Mind” doesn’t disappoint, meeting its listener with the angsty lyrics and unique beats for which Goulding’s fame originated.

Unfortunately “Delirium” as a whole, does not live up to the expectations of fans. The seventh track on Goulding’s project is entitled, “Codes.” Collectively the track, like many of the others on the album, seems to lack complexity and effort. Repeating the same phrase, “Stop talking in codes,” for an agonizing three minutes and sixteen seconds, this track is sure to having you changing the station every time it comes around on your morning commute.

“Army” is the thirteenth track on the album and expected to be her next single from the album. One would expect this track to be upbeat and fun like “On My Mind," but one would be vastly incorrect. “Army” is a slower track, on which Goulding pines for an ex-lover. The chorus repeats the phrase, “When I’m with you / I’m standing with an army.” Though Goulding’s voice does sound impeccable on “Army,” the song collectively offers an unoriginal concept, lacking the substance and emotion most often heard in great breakup songs.

In all, Ellie Goulding’s third studio album “Delirium,” tragically confirms that Goulding has artistically shifted away from her beloved, quirky EDM side and instead conformed to the generic pop culture mold.


Comments