In January of 2011 Adele released her GRAMMY- winning breakout album, 21. 21 topped the charts in over 30 countries and is named Billboard 200’s top album of all time. Almost five years later after vocal cord surgery and the birth of her son, Adele is back again with another record shattering album.

25, named after her age when produced, is a reflection on past heartbreak, forgiveness and moving on. Like its predecessor, 25 is composed of soulful piano ballads, emotional lyrics and Adele’s once-in-a-generation vocals. The album itself is wonderfully and skillfully pieced together. That being said, it is nothing new for Adele.

The tracks on 25 are strikingly similar to those on 21, which is neither good nor bad. I must stress, even though the tracks sound similar musically and in theme, 25 is by no means a bad or even disappointing album. Adele addresses the same heartbreak she sang of in 21, but instead of the emotions that came right after the metaphorical storm, Adele sings of moving on and forgiving.

In her songs “Love in the Dark” and “All I Ask” she sings about letting go and accepting the inevitable end of her love. Both tracks are emotional and sound as if they are straight from her heart. “River Lea” showcases her own thoughts on herself with a dark melody and a chorus of voices in the background, while “Send My Love (To Your New Lover)” features an upbeat, more bright feel. All in all, 25 has something for everyone.The tracks range from strong ballads to soft confessions to hopes for the future.

For this reason, I give 25 a solid eight out of ten. Adele proves once again that she is a master at pleasing her audience and delivering wonderful music.