Illuminate

Description

He is only eighteen years old, but Canadian Shawn Mendes is already on his second album. Illuminate indeed follows Handwritten, released in 2015, which quickly brought him fame thanks to an undeniable hit, "Life to the Party." The young man hasn't really planned to disrupt his simple and effective pop formula, much like his role model, Ed Sheeran. However, it must be noted that his voice, from the very first notes of the opening track, "Ruin," has gained confidence and maturity. The quality of the arrangements, often stripped back to give him space, is often remarkable, as seen in the very understated piano introduction of "Mercy," in a more serious register. Much more in tune with the times, the production of "Treat You Better" highlights a martial, overly conventional, and clumsy drumbeat, somewhat spoiling the undeniable melodic potential of the song, even if it will undoubtedly find success on the charts. Shawn Mendes makes a return to form with the subtle "Three Empty Words" and its delicate guitar arpeggios, or the laid-back "Don't Be a Fool," exploring a particularly fitting soul-blues territory. With its gospel intonations and intimate piano, "Like This" is one of the standout moments of this new album, showcasing the Canadian's voice with unexpected character and personality. The enchantment continues with "No Promises," which hardly needs more than a few guitar notes in its introduction. And while the production seems poised to yield to current trends, the song remains the strongest with a surprising bridge and an unexpected chorus, where Shawn Mendes reaches for some high notes that are sure to excite young girls. "Lights On" does not stray from its path, even if the result is more predictable. The lovely ballad "Honest" is the second moment of true grace in this collection, and while "Patience" lacks substance, Shawn Mendes delivers a masterful and epic "Bad Reputation" before closing the discussion with the somewhat more innocuous "Understand." There is plenty to be excited about regarding Shawn Mendes's potential, and Illuminate will undoubtedly establish him in the musical landscape for a while.