Inescapable.
For many, that’s precisely what Emeli Sande‘s reign over the UK music landscape was.
Recognising the pros and potential plight of this, the Scottish-bred belter voluntarily vacated the spotlight in 2013.
Three years on, she’s back and gearing up to release sophomore album ‘Long Live The Angels.’
With three months seeming like an age in showbiz, Sande’s lengthier hiatus naturally presents the question of what response she’ll receive upon her return.
The 29-year-old delivered an emphatic answer last night at a live showcase of the new material.
More on what to expect from ‘Angels’ after the jump…
Staged at the stunning St. John at Hackney, the venue’s grand aesthetic presented a fitting backdrop for the songbird’s soul-stirring set.
A carefully curated songlist placed new numbers at the forefront, while ensuring smashes such as ‘Next To Me,’ ‘Clown,’ and ‘My Kind Of Love’ weren’t overlooked.
Still, on the strength of the freshly composed tracks, Sande could have easily sung the entirety of ‘Angels’ and earned an equally rapturous response. They’re that good.
Performed early in the set, ‘Every Single Little Piece’ pierced positively and reminded of the crystalline quality of Sande’s voice. ‘Highs & Lows’ had a similar effect.
‘Happen,’ which she touted as one of her favourites on the LP, is a haunting, sparse ballad featuring dramatic drums and a gorgeous guitar solo.
Elsewhere, ‘Garden’ – which she also pegged as a personal highlight – saw the singer veer into trippy territory. Though understated, it’s arguably her most experimental offering with its summery, vibe-guided production, and spoken-word interludes.
Notoriously private, Sande – who divorced her longtime lover after just one year of marriage – shares a story of hopeful healing on ‘Babe.’ Speaking to the capacity crowd, she explained that when writing the track, she asked herself “after all the hurt, maybe I can call someone ‘babe’ again.” Of all the songs performed, this could very well have the most fruitful relationship with radio.
Current single ‘Hurts’ was a potent pleaser live and hyper-highlighted that a spell away from the spotlight can’t dim true talent.
‘Long Live The Angels’ lands in stores November 11th.