Album Review: Ben Haenow – Ben Haenow
2 min read
Ben Haenow may have won last year’s X Factor UK, but it takes more than recognition to deliver the know-how. Even judge Simon Cowell was surprised that an artist of Haenow’s calibre wasn’t picked up by a label: now that’s saying something. Ben worked long and hard on writing/recording his debut album, and the end result may surprise you.
Sometimes X Factor contestants may take the backseat during the creative process, but for Ben Haenow Ben spent a lot of time writing/co-writing the album; his personality shines on this record and it’s a breath of fresh air. Most notably the album’s lead single was a duet (something else unexpected from a winner of the show) and excitingly enough it was with Kelly Clarkson; Second Hand Heart is catchy and the chemistry between both Haenow and Clarkson is undeniable.
Ben cited Slamming Doors as one of his favourite tracks on the album, it was penned with Amy Wadge who was responsible for Ed Sheeran’s Thinking Out Loud; it’s a beautiful song with a wonderful melody, and the lyrics are emotionally fuelled. Although the album is very much a pop record, songs like Make It Back To Me and One Night change up the sound a little; downbeat moments like Every Tear You Cry are just as captivating as the explosive Greatest Mistake and All Yours.
Ben Haenow is on cloud nine and he may also take you there, his debut is one of the most solid releases by an X Factor winner so far. There are still influences of mainstream pop, but we also get to hear some of his rock beginnings and that diversified the overall listen. If Ben Haenow is the kickstart to Ben’s career, then we’re in for a hell of a ride over the years to come.
