Laura Evans 'Out of the Dark' album review: Forget the myths about the troubled second album this record overflows with timeless appeal

Laura Evans’ second album 'Out of the Dark' sees the Welsh singer-songwriter pushing her sound in an exploration of heartfelt blues ballads, anthemic pop choruses, underpinned with a soft rock appeal. Stepping confidently into the spotlight after her 2022 debut 'State of Mind', Evans is back with a record that has a glossy timeless quality.

'Wherever You Are' immediately sets the tone. With its lush melodies and anthemic pop sensibility, it’s no surprise this one’s been getting regular spins on BBC Radio 2. There’s a soft, almost confessional quality to her voice that draws you in from the opening bars.

Another track that's been getting plenty of airplay is the empowering anthem 'What I’m Made Of'. Evans doesn't just write an instantly appealing pop hook; she drives heart and soul into the lyrics: just like all the best pop songs.

'Superman' plays with tropes and lyrical play with tongue firmly in cheek. Sure, it might be a tad cheesy - but hey, who doesn't need a bit of hoaky soul tinged pop in these dark times! I guarantee you'll be singing along by the end of the middle 8.

ATM is a funky, swampy track that feels like it could’ve been pulled straight from the late ‘60s, but still sounds fresh and exciting. As does the soulful 'Nobody Loves Me Like You', with its gossamer guitar refrain and delicate and vulnerable vocals. Meanwhile, 'Heartbreaker' serves up rhythmic rock drive that’s impossible to shake.

The album closes with the Southern rock-inspired 'Hear Me Out', a cathartic anthem that feels like a declaration of resilience. It’s a fitting closer, as Evans sings, “There ain't no going back… I’ll keep on moving… Find a new direction...take it up a gear.”

Whether she’s belting out a gut-wrenching ballad or a swaggering rock anthem, Evans always delivers with a voice that’s rich with emotion. The production and arrangements are also gloriously subtle. Ian Barter's production makes the album shine while giving Evans' vocals the limelight they deserve.

Forget the myths about the troubled second album: 'Out of the Dark' feels like a natural progression, overflowing with charm and instantly singable tracks. You can’t help but feel that, with this album, Laura Evans is on the precipice of something big.