Adam Lambert, the runner-up for the eighth season of American Idol, returns; following the success for his first two albums For Your Entertainment and Trespassing and now, the commercial success of his latest single “Ghost Town”. I take a listen to his third album The Original High.
When I first thought of The Original High I thought to myself, “Do we need magic mushrooms, acid or any other hallucinogenic drugs to enjoy this? Is it a psychedelic mind fuck?” Judging by the lack of multi-colours on the cover, this wasn’t the 70s throwback I was expecting. The cover has moody undertones that is reflected in the lyrics and style of the album. In fact, I believe this whole album is open for self-interpretation. I don’t believe it is a clear story of black and white – but shades of grey – with even “The Original High” being about finding that thing, that spark, that gives you the most enjoyment out of life without being preachy and rubbing it in your face.
If you like the latest “Ghost Town”, it’s a good indication of how you will feel about the rest of the album. “Ghost Town” too is up for interpretation, Adam wrote the song about his time in LA; I see it more as feeling dead inside in a sea of people “ghosts” but also as floating memories from the past in your own mind. That feeling of being surrounded but of being alone – it’s as I would imagine [what] it would be to be in Purgatory. It’s haunting in its imagery – but an extra point for the wild west whistle at the beginning of the number.
Upon first listening to this album, I couldn’t help but notice how different it is to his other albums. In what kind of way, I hear you ask. They both have an array of fast and slow songs, catchy tunes showcasing Adam’s impressive vocal range and the high long screech (I say for a lack of word) that he’s known for. I couldn’t help but realise that I can’t pin point how it is different. I merely think it is and others will too. Perhaps the songs are a bit more for the club yet more intimate, maybe, a bit less camp/theatrics, but it’s also a rare thing for an album for every song to have potential to be a radio success.
“Evil Is The Night” is my personal standout on the album. I can picture him on stage singing the song – the lights, the sweat, the thrusting – sorry, I just had a moment. I haven’t liked one of his songs this much since the energetic “Fever” from For Your Entertainment. Influenced by his recent sold-out worldwide tour with Queen, also a standout, is the duet “Lucy” with its legendary-guitarist Brian May.
To sum up, The Original High is a collection of songs that you’ll be singing along with for days on end. And while it’s not my favourite Adam album – as I’m all for camp! – it definitely has merit and playability. And, as always, buy the deluxe edition, because it’s always worth it.
Review Score: 8.5 out of 10.
The Original High is out now.
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