How Sam Smith transformed personal devotion into a New York-inspired musical odyssey
In short: Released in August 2026, Hazel Eyes marks a pivotal evolution for Sam Smith. Moving beyond their previous work, this 12-track collection blends gospel, jazz, and soul to create a deeply intimate portrait of queer devotion and romanticism, shaped by years of songwriting and a new life in New York.
Hazel Eyes represents a significant shift in Sam Smith's artistic trajectory. Following their 2023 album Gloria, this fifth studio project is described by critics as their most confident and fully realized work to date. The album's creation was a deeply personal endeavor, with Smith spending over three years writing the material alongside a small circle of friends. Much of the record took shape in New York, a city Smith now calls home, and the project serves as a heartfelt ode to the urban environment.
The sonic landscape of the album is notably diverse, drawing on influences from gospel, blues, soul, folk, and jazz. Collaborators like Simon Aldred, who co-produced the record with Smith and David Odlum, were instrumental in shaping the album's cohesive narrative. The sessions, which included work at Electric Lady Studios, also featured contributions from artists such as Feist, Shahzad Ismaily, and Rob Moose. This collaborative spirit extended to the stage during Smith's 'To Be Free' residency, where they performed tracks from the upcoming album alongside guests like Ed Sheeran and Norah Jones.
Critical reception has been largely positive, with reviewers noting the album's maturity and stylistic breadth. While some critics, such as Andy Kellman of AllMusic, suggest the album may not yield major hits, they praise its accomplished, intimate tone. Others have highlighted the specific imagery and choral elements in tracks like 'Oh Mother' and 'My Guy'. Upon its debut, the album reached number 21 on the UK Albums Chart, moving 4,470 album-equivalent units during that initial week.
The project's complexity is further evidenced by its single releases, ranging from the single-take 'To Be Free' to the queer-themed romantic western narrative of 'Constant Companion'. By stepping into the role of producer, Smith has expressed that the process helped them deepen their artistry, documenting life's lessons through a sound that is both romantic and stylistically varied.
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- Summary by Intellect · source: Hazel Eyes (album)
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