Sam Smith’s ‘Hazel Eyes’: All 12 Songs Ranked

Sam Smith's album Hazel Eyes explores uncharted emotional territories, with the singer shedding light on their identity and relationships. After initially penning songs about heartbreak without experiencing them personally, Smith has gradually delved into themes like desire, personal growth, and sex. Their latest album marks their first attempt to answer the question of who exists beyond the distinct, aching voice that has defined their previous work.

With the help of their partner Christian Cowan and their adopted home of New York City, Smith creates a romantic mythology that centers on the feelings their relationships evoke rather than their literal presence.

The dual muses of Hazel Eyes serve as figures in a broader romantic narrative, and the album tackles themes of shame, public perception, and the power of patient, requited love. The title track reflects Smith's initial confusion about the purpose of their heart, while "To Be Free" explores the liberation found in maintaining genuine connections.

The album's closing track, "To Be Free," became the theme for Smith's triumphant U.S. concert tour, which featured sold-out shows at renowned venues like Warsaw in Brooklyn, the Albert Hall in Manchester, and the London Coliseum.

Despite collaborating with pop icons like Ed Sheeran, Hozier, and Sienna Spiro, Hazel Eyes emphasizes Smith's signature vocal prowess over elaborate stage production. The album retains the hallmarks of their earlier work, incorporating subtle surprises such as country guitar in "When He's Gone" and the influence of Canadian indie songwriter Feist on tracks like "Moondance." The title itself pays homage to Cowan and their engagement, emphasizing the album's focus on Smith's evolving story.