Long Live the Angels

Released four years after her record-breaking debut, Long Live the Angels represents a significant maturation in Emeli Sandé's artistry. Moving away from the 'Our Version of Events' pop-soul template, this album delves into themes of her Zambian heritage, her divorce, and her spiritual reawakening. The production, largely handled by Mac & Phil, favors organic textures, gospel choirs, and cinematic arrangements. Notably, the track 'Garden' features a rare foray into experimental R&B and spoken word, while 'Selah' and 'Sweet Architect' lean heavily into liturgical influences. Critics noted its ambition and the sheer power of Sandé's vocal performance, though some found the 15-track runtime slightly overlong. It stands as her most personal and sonically adventurous work, cementing her status as a premier vocalist in the British soul tradition.