However, like Ryan said she does have a very unique voice that sounds quite indie. After diving into her 22-song deluxe album Delirium and then re-listening to it I can definitely hear the mainstream route she was looking to take. I understand what her goal is with this album, but I've always honestly felt that with her catchy beats and hooks that she was the prime example of a pop artist. Lindsay Haddox: Until now I never really listened to Ellie Goulding except for what was played on the radio. All and all she's made a valid effort and pop stardom, there's definitely some hits. A 112 sample on a pop album on 2015? Groundbreaking. ' We Can't Move To This' was the biggest stand out to me. I don't hate them, but sans her unique vocals they are pretty standard and kind of blah. Lead single ' On My Mind' and ' Codes' stood out as obvious attempts at a more mainstream sound. ' Something In The Way You Move' and ' Around U' also felt right on brand. The only difference is the writing is more transparent and the production has some subtle urban influences.Īlbum opener ' Aftertaste' was a nice place to start and plays right into what we've gotten used to hear from her over the years.

I say try because with her distinctly indie vocal style, and EDM's undeniable influence on mainstream, Delirium still plays much like her past work. As such it was interesting to see her 'try' to ditch her indie/EDM background in exchange for a more mainstream appeal. You're right Ryan, her voice is easily the most unique in the game. John Gonzalez: It's taken me a few listens and a quick revisit of her catalog to fully grasp this album and just who Ellie Goulding is in 2015.

You guys think all of the booming production and hooks put her in the stratosphere of where she wants to be or did Goudling not do enough to become the big pop star she wants to be? Now three years removed from Halycon and building on the success of the sultry ' Love Me Like You D o.' Goudling attempts to break out as a superstar with Delirium. Her voice is among the most unique in pop music today, which has helped carry her through the Lights and Halycon album cycles.

Ryan Middleton: Ellie Goulding has stated that she is trying to step away from indie and EDM to become a bonafide pop star. This week, Carolyn Menyes, Ryan Middleton, John Gonzalez and Lindsay Haddox chat about Ellie Gouldings new album, Delirium. Welcome to Junk Mail, where a few Music Times staffers email back-and-forth about each week's biggest release throughout the work day.

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