Four-time Grammy winning artist Sam Smith returns with his-second studio album, “The Thrill Of It All”, and it’s sweeping up a lot of feeling.

The British singer-songwriter emerged in 2012 on Disclosure’s hit-single, “Latch.” Smith’s breakout single, “Stay With Me” hit #2 on Billboard’s Hot 100 list. Following “Stay With Me,” Smith released his debut album, “In the Lonely Hour,” which further contributed to his rise on the charts.

Three years later, Smith’s music finds new inspiration. Before announcing the  release of the new LP this fall, Smith released “Too Good at Goodbyes,” his slower but beautiful single.

“Too Good at Goodbyes” starts off with a new vibe for the young artist. An aching beat coming from the expressive vocalist in the song is similar to the familiar 2014 single, “Stay With Me.”  The song starts off with a lonely piano chord, and the song builds until an explosive choir echoes Smith’s chorus. Smith continues with a choral vibe with his second-promotional single, “Burning.” The song exhibits Smith’s wide vocal range in a way that separates this track from the rest of the album.

Smith has always succeeded at crafting emotional lyrics. “Say It First” best exemplifies this talent. On the track, Smith talks about not knowing how to approach someone who loves him back. “Say It First” could easily be heard in a romance movie.

Usually, Smith just opens up about tearful heartbreak on his songs. “HIM” makes the message clear for his loving fans. Smith’s  lyrics express heartbreak from an LGBTQ+ point of view. Through the song, Smith  also shares a confession with God by sharing his hopes about believing in equality. This empowering track calls back to Smith’s “Money On My Mind,” in which he discusses balancing money in the music industry.  In the future, I hope Smith continues to touch important topics.

Smith has always made listeners cry with ballads like  “Lay Me Down” and “Stay With Me.” Exploring new emotional depths, Smith’s newest LP is perfect for any mood, whether needing consolation after a breakup or expressing passionate love for a partner.  

“The Thrill Of It All:” ★★★★