Ellie Goulding-"Lights" Review

Fans of this British songstress knew here way before this stunning debut. In fact, "Lights" seems like an extravagant coming out party to Ellie Goulding's fans from across the pond. But just how far can she take her success to the states? With records like this, we've only just begun to see this young, but already mature artist.

In 2010, it's not hard to come by a sugary pop hit or a solid R&B record, but what's not that common is the electro-folk introduced by Ellie Goulding. While most artists have their style set in stone, and then just re-work their studio craft to accomodate a wider audience, what Goulding achieves is an LP whose songs are not particularly set in any specific genre. So, the likes of "Salt Skin", a dance number very worthy of recognition, can fit right alongside "Starry Eyed", a pop-py number that sinks in its hook immediately. The indie-pop of "Guns and Horses" can easily coexist with the brilliant title track "Lights", a hit that's sure to consume the radiowaves within the next few months. But what ultimately makes the album such a masterpiece of music is its cleanliness. Each track has been wiped clean to leave no imperfections, not one ounce of grit exists on "Lights", but yet it still maintains some lean muscle to keep the momentum charged with glossy sheen and sparkling choruses. Goulding's voice is also distinctive, no one can quite match the idiosyncracies it presents, and it makes this album all the more compelling. Her songwriting is strong, showcasing equal amounts of naivite and brassiness, and then the glassy electronics brings them to life instead of drowning them out.

What this album showcases the most is the power of the British re-invasion of the new millennium. First Amy Winehouse broke out in 2007, then came Adele in 2008, followed by Florence + The Machine in 2009, so why discontinue this yearly pattern? In 2010, it's Ellie's turn to literally take the spotlight, as this album's title implies, "Lights" is a shining debut that easily trumps the debuts of the above artists with all of its sweeping emotions, unique style, and bright, glistening sound all wrapped up into a cool, sleek package.

Recommended Tracks in Bold:
1. Lights                  2. Guns and Horses              3. Starry Eyed
4. This Love (Will Be Your Downfall)                    5. Under the Sheets
6. The Writer          7. Animal                              8. Every Time You Go
9. Your Biggest Mistake       10. Salt Skin          11. Your Song