More than one-hit wonders

Both products of reality shows in the UK who had their names etched on the public’s social radar, Leona Lewis and Olly Murs have new albums in the market. As they are out to prove that their careers are more than one-hit wonders, their game now also has to do with gaining success beyond the UK, where both albums played strongly upon their release.

Leona Lewis — Glassheart (Sony/Ivory). On her third studio album, Leona gives us a bit of the expected, her slow burn ballads, along with the unexpected. The title track is the surprise package, as it has Leona dabbling in electronica, aiming for a club hit and doing a fine job. Trouble is the first single, and we get a remix bonus track that has rapper/comedian Childish Bambino channeling Eminem in his own style. Un Love Me is the track we can most readily identify with, but others like Lovebird and Fireflies are just as strong. Favorite Scar is a reworking of a Tears for Fears tune. For those who miss Whitney Houston and Celine Dion, this one’s for you. It’s a solid effort that should work despite a degree of predictability.

Olly Murs — Right Place, Right Time (Sony/Ivory). Olly is a steady favorite in the UK, known for his bright, lively form of pop music. In fact, one could say this is a recurring theme of the new album, a pastiche of different sure-fire styles. If ever one wanted to hear what Maroon 5 would sound like with Florida as collaborator, listen to the single, Troublemaker. With Cry Your Heart Out, I was reminded of Andy Grammar. While a track like Dear Darling may veer to the sappy, over-sweet side of pop, I can imagine how well it would go down for the UK’s mainstream charts. Satisfying and safe, Olly’s new album does work, but I also wonder where he will next get his inspiration, and if a truly individual identity would develop.