Ellie Goulding
Halcyon Days
(Polydor Ltd.)

Ellie Goulding’s Halcyon Days is unique to say the least. Her vocal range overall is fantastic and her voice is melodic. At first listen, she reminds me of an interesting mix of Kate Bush and Enya – strong vocals mixed with unique lyrics and melodies. The ballads, however, are most impressive. The faster songs seem too repetitive with lyrics that are not nearly as intriguing as those of the ballads.

Lyrics are always what I look for most while listening to an album. I feel they are what keep a listener coming back for more. In the song “My Blood,” the line “in the gunfire of empty bullets” is simple, yet poetic. On “Only You,” “the only animal I couldn’t fight” was another impressive line. Both may seem simple, yet they have that quality to make them memorable to the listener.

Halcyon Days overall is a mix of styles that can draw in many types of listeners and satisfy different tastes. While the ballads have excellent instrumentals and poetic lyrics, the faster songs, though not my personal favorite, have interesting beats. Halcyon Days is definitely worth a listen.