London born singer-songwriter Rachel Keen – otherwise known as Raye – has forged a hugely successful career writing for the likes of Beyonce, Ellie Goulding and Little Mix, and provided vocals for hit records from the likes of Jonas Blue and David Guetta. However, her own solo career in front of the microphone has been a bit of a stop-start affair, with four EPs released over the last six years and a wide collection of singles to boot.

Euphoric Sad Songs marks her first studio album release, or mini album if you’re not convinced that nine tracks count as a full-length LP. As the name suggests, it’s a record that draws its inspiration from breakups and romantic woes, with Raye opening up on several of the tracks and revealing some of her own experiences.

Sonically, however, this is a far from a downbeat affair. Instead, Raye fuses her tales of heartbreak with slick, high tempo dance-infused contemporary pop. Opening track Love Me Again sets the scene, with its tight beat against which Raye wonders “if there’s something I can do to make you love me again”.

Change Your Mind’s spoken-word interlude is an interesting deviation from the blueprint, while Secrets, a collaboration with DJ Regard, has already cracked the top ten of the singles chart with its polished club beat and production. Natalie Don’t is built around a great bassline, as is the addictive Please Don’t Touch, which features some of the album’s most compelling lyrics (“The thing about love is it ain’t simple enough / The thing about trust is it takes two of us”).

Writing on her official Facebook page, Raye said: “My darlings this is something I wanted to surprise you with in this dreadful time so I hope this brings you some joy. Make sure you listen in order and tell me your fave song.” Despite the serious subject material, Raye has definitely created a deeply enjoyable collection.

Euphoric Sad Songs tracklist:

1. Love Me Again

2. Change Your Mind

3. Regardless

4. Secrets

5. Natalie Don’t

6. All Dressed Up

7. Please Don’t Touch

8. Walk On By

9. Love Of Your Life

Watch the official video for Love Of Your Life here.

Author: Joe Sharratt

Joe Sharratt is a writer and journalist based in the UK covering music, literature, sport, and travel.