Adele - 30 - Sealed

Sealed w/ hype sticker

Adele's 30 (2021) is a deeply personal and introspective album that marks the British singer-songwriter's return to music after a six-year hiatus. It explores themes of heartbreak, self-discovery, and healing, largely influenced by her experiences with divorce and motherhood. Here's an overview:

Background and Context

30 is Adele's fourth studio album, released on November 19, 2021. The album follows her previous releases, 19 (2008), 21 (2011), and 25 (2015), all of which were named after the age she was when she began writing them. 30 was written in the wake of her divorce from Simon Konecki, with whom she shares a son, Angelo. The album serves as a reflection on the end of her marriage, her journey of self-acceptance, and the challenges of raising her son in the midst of personal turmoil.

Adele worked with several producers and songwriters on the album, including Greg Kurstin, Max Martin, and Inflo, blending her signature soulful sound with elements of jazz, R&B, and pop.

Musical Style and Themes

30 continues Adele’s tradition of emotionally powerful ballads but also introduces more diverse musical styles, such as jazz, gospel, and even elements of dance-pop. The album is characterized by its lush production, rich vocals, and deeply confessional lyrics, with Adele openly addressing her personal struggles, emotional pain, and the process of moving forward.

Lyrically, 30 delves into themes of heartbreak, motherhood, self-exploration, and resilience. Adele’s lyrics are introspective and candid, offering listeners a window into her most vulnerable moments. The album is also notable for its exploration of complex emotions, including guilt, regret, and hope.

Tracklist

1. "Strangers by Nature" - The opening track is a lush, cinematic ballad that pays homage to classic Hollywood scores. It sets the tone for the album, with Adele reflecting on the end of her marriage and her emotional state.

2. "Easy on Me" - The lead single and one of the album’s standout tracks, "Easy on Me" is a heartfelt piano ballad in which Adele asks for understanding as she navigates the aftermath of her divorce. The song became an instant hit, resonating with fans for its emotional depth and Adele’s powerful vocal delivery.

3. "My Little Love" - A deeply personal song that features voice notes of conversations between Adele and her son Angelo. The track blends R&B with soul, capturing Adele’s feelings of guilt and confusion as she explains her divorce to her child.

4. "Cry Your Heart Out" - An upbeat, Motown-inspired track that contrasts its lively rhythm with lyrics about depression and the importance of allowing oneself to grieve.

5. "Oh My God" - A pop track with a catchy beat that reflects Adele’s internal conflict between embracing newfound freedom and the guilt that comes with it. The song explores themes of desire and self-discovery.

6. "Can I Get It" - A pop song with folk influences, featuring catchy guitar riffs and a whistle hook. The song is about Adele’s yearning for a deep, meaningful connection after her divorce.

7. "I Drink Wine" - A gospel-tinged ballad that sees Adele reflecting on her past mistakes and the lessons she’s learned. The song’s lyrics delve into the complexities of letting go of the need for approval and embracing self-love.

8. "All Night Parking (with Erroll Garner)" - A jazzy, interlude-like track that features a sample of the late jazz pianist Erroll Garner. The song captures the excitement of a new romance, showcasing a more playful side of Adele.

9. "Woman Like Me" - A mid-tempo ballad with sparse instrumentation, in which Adele confronts a former lover about their shortcomings. The song is a powerful declaration of self-worth and empowerment.

10. "Hold On" - A gospel-inspired anthem of resilience, "Hold On" was written during a period when Adele was struggling with self-doubt. The song’s message is one of perseverance and finding strength in difficult times.

11. "To Be Loved" - A powerful, piano-driven ballad where Adele reflects on the sacrifices and emotional toll of her failed marriage. The song showcases her vocal range and emotional intensity, making it one of the album’s most poignant tracks.

12. "Love Is a Game" - The closing track is a retro-soul ballad that channels the sound of classic 1960s love songs. Adele uses the metaphor of love as a game to express the bittersweet nature of romantic relationships.