Ellie Goulding made the long-awaited announcement yesterday that she has finished recording her new album, calling it “Halcyon”. The album will be available on the 8th of October.

The new single is called “Anything Can Happen” and Goulding is set to share a preview of it later this week, she thinks. If you were watching her Facebook feed yesterday, you’d think she was having a mental breakdown over the idea of sharing new music. Clearly Goulding is feeling the sophomore pressure more than anyone. With the success of “Lights“/”Bright Lights“, and the recent resurgence of her popularity in the U.S., “Halcyon” is clearly going to be the important next step for her.

But do not despair, Ellie. What we’ve heard so far is pretty darned promising…

The promotional track “Hanging On” featuring Tinie Tempah, made its way onto the internet and if it’s any indication of what’s the come, then we’re treading in pretty stellar water waiting for the rest of the album. With a mix of playful electronic-symphonic and a driving, urban bass line, Goulding‘s breathless, ethereal vocals are more focused and effective than her debut.

Have a listen:

Tinie Tempah can be a polarizing rapper, so the pairing on the surface can be a bit surprising. In reality, the two fit together nicely here, with the music accommodating Tempah‘s rap style, while also softening the harshness of it, melting them into Goulding‘s vocals. The song is currently available for free download here.

Overall, this is an excellent start and it isn’t even a single…

Current mood: Seriously excited.

-B