'Halcyon Days' is the repackaged edition of Ellie Goulding's second album 'Halcyon'. To do this review I will be reviewing the original album first and then a segment on what the additional songs add to the album.
Halcyon
After the poppy youth of debut album 'Lights', 'Halcyon' came as a shock to most people. 'Halcyon' exhibited a darker and certainly more mature side of Ellie Goulding. A lot of 'Halcyon' is songs that are very alternative to what you would find in mainstream pop. Much like Florence and the Machine's 'Ceremonials' there is a certain ethereal nature to songs like 'Don't Say A Word' or title track 'Halcyon'. Then there are songs like 'Explosions' and 'Figure 8' in which we can hear the hidden strength of Ellie Goulding's voice which in many ways continue to surprise us. The music is scant, but just enough to be able to support the wonderous vocal performances on the songs.
8/10
Then, there came 'Halcyon Days'. From lead single 'Burn' we immediately learned that the ever-changing nature of Ellie Goulding's musical direction had struck yet again. In this EP, Ellie returns to the exciting nature of 'Lights', but with the maturity of 'Halcyon'. Songs like 'Burn' and 'Goodness Gracious' are of the standard to put Ellie in the category of pop stars such as Rihanna and Madonna. 'Hearts Without Chains' grounds the album perfectly so that it doesn't seem too airy, and while the lyrics don't quite match the standard of 'Halcyon', they fit the music well.
All in all, Ellie made the right decision to repackage 'Halcyon'. This EP completes an album that though amazing and mature needed an extra something. Ellie's unique voice continues to astound me when I listen to her music and it's safe to say that I certainly will be listening to this repackaged album for a while to come.
9/10
Click here to watch the video for her lead single 'Burn'
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