Music reviews

THE THRILL OF IT ALL Sam Smith

Sam Smith is proof that you can have the fame and the talent and still be knocked down by the gut-wrenching sadness of heartbreak. Luckily, he is skilled enough to turn his misery into music on criticallyacclaimed The Thrill Of It All, brought to us after a three-anda-half-year wait. 9/10

A LOVE SO BEAUTIFUL Roy Orbinson and the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra

The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra follows its successful “collaborations” with Elvis by reviving another distinctive and much-missed voice from the past.

Orbison’s mournful love songs are a perfect fit for a full orchestra. 5/10

SHERIDAN Sheridan Smith

She’s got an impressive television CV and has received rave reviews for her numerous theatre roles too. Now Sheridan Smith’s latest venture – her rendition of a number of classic songs on her debut album – adds another impressive notch to her many talents. 7/10

COMMON PROBLEM The LaFontaines

The LaFontaines are aiming high. With their fresh new release, Common Problem, the Scottish rap-rockers are perfectly clear about where they want to be: everywhere.

They may not have found their footing or the fanbase they’re aiming for, but it’s only a matter of time. 7/10