By: Chris Pizzolo

Sam Smith is a newcomer to the Billboard Top 40 Charts, but it’s no surprise that he’s already in the category of ‘the elite.’ His recently released debut In The Lonely Hour is a collection of fourteen songs just shy of one hour of music. The album is a complete throwback to well…music. From its inception to its demise, the album is sequenced traditionally and beautifully.Smith even mentions in an interview at the Fader Fort that he was aiming to create something timeless. Well Sam, ya did it. You’ve created an album that has the brilliant soulful feel of an Al Green greatest hits collection as told from the introspective soul of a young boy who is bubbling to explore the outside worlds.

Highlight tracks that really stuck with me on this one are “Money On My Mind,” “Stay With Me,” “I’m Not The Only–ah fuck it, the whole album is amazing.I’m very curious to see if there is an EDM style remix of the break-through hit “Stay With Me”, similar to what’s been done to John Legend’s “All Of Me” on the radio.Nonetheless, for the folks that appreciate the wonderful production that went into this album, don’t fret when this artist becomes a regular on the Top 40 charts. He deserves it. With vocals comparable to Cee-Lo Green, and a mood similar to Adele’s 21, the album will surely gain the attention of young fans. Just give them like a year.

All in all, this album is a testament to the fact that brilliance and vibrancy is alive and well in pop music today. Sincerely, thank you Sam Smith. You’ve made wonderful album that is much appreciated.

Check out his hit single “Stay With Me”