Combining his usual mix of classic songs as well as new ones, this album is as classy and as elegant as you would expect.

There is always something comforting about listening to Michael Bublé singing – his voice is one of those that is capable of soothing away your troubles and to help you relax. Some might find his style of performance predictable – but for me it is always enjoyable. He shows respect for the classic songs, while slotting in his own lovely new songs into the album perfectly to make for a gentle and pleasurable listen – as evidenced here.

The title song ‘Higher’ has a lovely latin quality about it with a few hints of drama thrown in that makes it a catchy and enjoyable song, while ‘I’ll Never Not Love You’ is equally as catchy with plenty of sincerity that is the singer’s trademark (and in some people’s mind a little bit corny- but I personally find it endearing). Intertwined with these new songs, I also appreciated the arrangements of some of the classic songs included on the album including a lovely jazzy rendition of ‘ A Nightingale Sang in Berkeley Square’ and the wonderfully tender collaboration with Willie Nelson on ‘Crazy’ for example – both are utterly charming.

If there is one song that sounds slightly awkward it is ‘You’re the First, the Last, My Everything’ – which although is great fun to listen to – I’m not sure whether it is the way in which the song has been arranged or the singer not being entirely confident in performing it something just feels a little bit off here. Meanwhile, his version of Adele’s ‘Make You Feel My Love’ which is slightly more uptempo can make it seem at odds with the lyrics, actually also breathes something new into the song and takes it to a different level.

But throughout it all, the album is classy and sophisticated and exactly what you would expect from a Michael Bublé album. Definitely worth a listen if you need something soothing to listen to.

By Emma Clarendon

Higher is available to buy now.

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐