The singer’s fourth solo album reveals a surprising and more mellow side to her musical capabilities.
When you think of Gwen Stefani, you automatically think songs such as ‘Sweet Escape’ and ‘Hollaback Girl’ for example with its rock and pop infused sounds – which is why her fourth studio album with its country vibes is such a surprise to listen to.
Perhaps it is not such a surprise, given her partner is Blake Shelton and it is lovely to hear a softer and more introspective side to what she is capable musically – but for many it is not what we have come to expect from her.
As the album suggests there is a definite floral vibe to the album, that allows her to focus on songs about romance and growth that will certainly be relatable to many people.
The album opens on a strong note with ‘Somebody Else’s’ about moving forward with a positive relationship in the wake of a bad one that really packs a punch in an uplifting way that will resonate with many and of course hints of feistiness that we have come to associate with Stefani.
From here on in, it does feel like a journey of development through emotions of self-doubt (‘Pretty’) and trying to be full as a person with love again (‘Empty Vase’) which works well from a consistency and structure point of view. But on occasion, some of the lyrics can feel a little bit predictable.
This is not to say that the album will not be relatable to many who listen to it, with particular highlights including ‘Late to Bloom’ and ‘Swallow My Tears’ both of which seem to have a bit more a sharpness to it that we are accustomed from the singer.
Elsewhere, the listener is reminded of her strength vocally on songs such as ‘Bouquet’ and ‘Marigolds’ that act as a powerful reminder of how much heart and soul that she pours into her music.
Many of the songs on the album feel retrospective and talk about growth – particularly ‘Reminders’ which is a beautifully constructed song that really makes an impact on the album as a whole.
Perhaps the album is more understated and modest than we are used to the singer offering, but at the same time it also shows a softer side to what she is capable of offering in a pleasing way. It is still a tight and concise album that has a understated but still classy feel to it that offers plenty of emotional impact.
By Emma Clarendon
Rating: ❤️❤️❤️❤️