On Sam Smith's previous album
Love Goes (2020), the British artist opted for a more dance-oriented sound and soul was largely omitted. On Gloria, however, Smith once again brings a potpourri of styles including soul, R&B, dance, disco and pop. Smith himself says that the songs on this album stem from emotional, sexual and spiritual liberation. Musically, though, that liberation doesn't seem to have
… quite come through. Smith seems unable to make a clear choice between danceable pop and sensitive ballads. Although Gloria has a few great pop songs (such as the deliciously dark Unholy with Kim Petras), the references to serious themes get a bit lost in the overcrowded production. With also a lot of intimate and personal topics, Gloria has its heart in the right place, though the right focus seems to be missing. (YvQ)more
