Grammy Award-winning artist Sam Smith is charting a new musical course with their fifth studio album, Hazel Eyes, marking a distinct shift away from maximalist pop toward a raw, acoustic-driven style reminiscent of classic traditional pop and 1970s singer-songwriters.
The Production and Setting of Hazel Eyes
According to production details released alongside the album rollout, Smith recorded a significant portion of Hazel Eyes at the historic Electric Lady Studios in New York City. Collaborating with longtime producer Simon Aldred, Smith shaped the record around sparse instrumentation, utilizing acoustic guitars, muted horns, and subtle string arrangements rather than the opulent production that defined previous commercial milestones.
Industry reports note that this stripped-down aesthetic places heavy emphasis on traditional storytelling, drawing comparisons to classic crooner records and outlaw country pacing. Music critics observing the release cycle point out that the stylistic pivot allows Smith’s vocal delivery to take center stage, relying on warmth and restraint instead of vocal gymnastics.
A Personal Dedication to New York City
Smith has described Hazel Eyes as an explicit love letter to New York City, where the artist currently maintains a residence. In statements provided to music publications, Smith credited the city’s open environment with providing a creative sanctuary.
“As I arrived here and was able to walk on the street without feeling judged, I realized that I was very happy as a queer person in New York City having found a sanctuary,” Smith stated regarding the album’s thematic roots.
Unlike previous records dominated by heartbreak and melodrama, Hazel Eyes adopts a reflective narrative stance on romance. Reviewers highlight that tracks such as the opening song “Everlasting Love” balance a bittersweet emotional weight with an uplifting, vintage Broadway atmosphere.
Evolution of Songwriting and Future Outlook
The release of Hazel Eyes represents a milestone in Smith’s creative autonomy, with the artist taking a more hands-on role in co-producing the tracks.
“This album is very personal, and I have the feeling that I’ve evolved through the creation of this album—by being involved in producing the record, by accompanying this album from start to finish and challenging myself at every single step,” Smith noted.
With Hazel Eyes now available through major music platforms and physical retailers, the project stands as a transitional moment for an artist shifting from contemporary pop superstardom into classic, timeless songcraft.
Worth a look