8/10

Since she first arrived with her breakthrough debut album '19' in 2008, Adele has been known for transforming her heartbreak and sorrow into international and identifiable anthems. Her sophomore collection '25' was formed from the ashes of an important relationship in her life, and was seen as the prime inspiration behind those songs. And sadly during the recording of this new collection, she went through a divorce and chose to keep the details of the breakup as private as she could, leading many to believe that '30' would be her most emotionally-charged and personal record to date. Which in fact, it isn't.

Despite all the buzz and expectation around '30' and how much of her personal pain she would inject into it, it feels like Adele isn't too keen on repeating past patterns as she unveils a passionate release that isn't all stuck on the same note. While the album's initial single 'Easy On Me' certainly leant heavily on that moment in her life, the full-length is more about who she is as a complete person. Regularly honing in on the experiences of new motherhood and the pressures of living in the limelight, this is a far more well-rounded attempt at showcasing her true self, something that is far more intimate and revealing throughout.

It is clear that Adele has matured with her sound over the last few years. There is a lot more diversity and adventurous behaviour on '30', delivering this fresh and revitalised release that doesn't revolve around the men in her life. She has begun to turn a corner on this new collection, something that may undoubtedly serve her well long into the future.