Holly Humberstone's 'Cruel World' Review: A Pop Glow-Up
The Guardian reviews Holly Humberstone's second album, 'Cruel World,' marking a significant stylistic shift from her debut. Moving away from the gothic melancholy of 'Paint My Bedroom Black,' the British singer-songwriter embraces a euphoric pop sound characterized by 80s synths and happy hardcore elements. Despite lacking a chart-topping single, Humberstone has built a substantial career through critical acclaim, support slots with Taylor Swift, and strong streaming numbers. The review highlights her ability to craft intimate, wordy lyrics over catchy, stadium-ready production. Tracks like 'To Love Somebody' and 'White Noise' showcase this new direction, blending nostalgic disco with modern pop sensibilities. While the article notes occasional lyrical awkwardness, it concludes that Humberstone's industrious approach to melody-making positions her for a long-term career in the evolving landscape of pop stardom.
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Holly Humberstone's 'Cruel World' Review: A Pop Glow-Up
The Guardian reviews Holly Humberstone's second album, 'Cruel World,' marking a significant stylistic shift from her debut. Moving away from the gothic melancholy of 'Paint My Bedroom Black,' the British singer-songwriter embraces a euphoric pop sound characterized by 80s synths and happy hardcore elements. Despite lacking a chart-topping single, Humberstone has built a substantial career through critical acclaim, support slots with Taylor Swift, and strong streaming numbers. The review highlights her ability to craft intimate, wordy lyrics over catchy, stadium-ready production. Tracks like 'To Love Somebody' and 'White Noise' showcase this new direction, blending nostalgic disco with modern pop sensibilities. While the article notes occasional lyrical awkwardness, it concludes that Humberstone's industrious approach to melody-making positions her for a long-term career in the evolving landscape of pop stardom.
The Guardian