falling or flying

AlbumSep 29 / 202316 songs, 43m 48s
Contemporary R&B
Popular

Five years after her critically acclaimed studio debut *Lost & Found*, Jorja Smith returns more self-assured than ever. On *falling or flying*, the UK singer-songwriter stays true to her roots, her lush tone draping over jazzy, futuristic production, while cuts like “GO GO GO” give listeners access to Smith’s more lighthearted side as she dips into indie rock territory. While *Lost & Found* exuded the energy of an exploratory coming-of-age for the then-19-year-old, *falling or flying* is a brutally honest expression of all the artist has learned. In her return to the musical spotlight, Smith also found her way back to her hometown of Walsall after spending a handful of years in London, during which time she worked on her sophomore album. *falling or flying* represents the singer’s blossoming sense of self amidst relentless public opinion, once again proving her intricate capabilities as a storyteller through both lyricism and vocal prowess.

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7.6 / 10

The UK singer’s earthy, sumptuous new album explores her ambivalent relationship to fame. It soars when it lets loose.

7 / 10

Jorja Smith's hardened confidence is the catalyst for bolder choices and further experimentation with an already versatile and wide-ranging sound. Falling or flying is filled with new and different textures.

On her second album – featuring dancefloor heater 'Little Things' – the Walsall-raised star finds her rhythm with an expanded sonic palette

This marks a real step up for the much-hyped artist, who has consistantly pushed back against industry expectations

A striking and dynamic comeback from a supremely talented artist.

A record unafraid to run off in different directions.

Jorja Smith's long-awaited second album is a sonic adventure that never stops surprising. Read The Forty-Five review.

6 / 10

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8 / 10

On her debut album ‘Lost and Found’, Jorja Smith fashioned a wistful coming-of-age story; a London-centric, RnB-leaning record that nullified the rough

6 / 10

Falling or Flying by Jorja Smith album review: a record that's caught in two minds – but when she makes a decision, it soars

9 / 10

Jorja Smith's 'Falling or Flying' is quite an accomplishment and an excellent vehicle for her estimable talents. It's a low-key yet unequivocal triumph. 

76 %

Album Reviews: Jorja Smith - Falling Or Flying

Anticipated second album from Walsall's biggest star is a sumptuous affair. New music review by Harry Thorfinn-George