Sam Smith's debut EP, 2014's Nirvana, showcases the British vocalist's sophisticated and atmospheric R&B-influenced pop music. Featuring production from Craze & Hoax and Jonathan Creek, the album works as an introduction to
Smith in anticipation of his full-length album, 2014's In the Lonely Hour. Included are such cuts as, "Safe with Me," an acoustic version of "Latch," "Money on My Mind," and the
Eg White (
Adele,
James Blunt,
Rebecca Ferguson) co-write "I've Told You Know," which was recorded live at London's St. Pancras Old Church. These are moody, gorgeously produced songs, carried ably by
Smith whose voice is full of yearning romanticism and ambient, sonorous longing. ~ Matt Collar