Preparation Playlist: Preparing for Adele's 30

With the release of “Easy on Me” the first single for Adele’s newest studio album 30, the magnificently somber bells ring in the commencement of a new musical era for Adele. Following her previous studio album 25, released November 20th, 2015, her newest album is set to release nearly six years after the previous release (November 19th, 2021). The longest hiatus between album releases in Adele’s discography to date.

As a longtime fan of Adele and an outspoken appreciator of her almost unearthly ability to emotionally obliterate the masses with her vocal prowess, the promise of fresh music following the single — a nostalgic and somber piano ballad written for her son and ex-husband Simon Konecki following their divorce in 2019— leaves me on edge in anticipation for what Adele will present us next. So, to commemorate the long-awaited release and subsequent emotional distress, I was inspired to take a musical ride through Adele’s discography to reexperience the emotional highs and lows, and prepare for the release by creating a short preparation playlist that attempts to highlight a few of the many magnificent songs from each respective album starting from the beginning.

1. Chasing Pavements

Her first ever single released; “Chasing Pavements” should be regarded as a classic, as it is exemplary of what would become a key feature of Adele’s signature musical style. The song employs an earnest mix of pop and soul elements that compose a ballad with drastic shifts in intensity between each chorus and verse, but doesn’t lose its footing tonally. I find the lyrics in the heart of the chorus: “Or would it be a waste/ even if I knew my place?” especially resonant of this idea of “chasing pavements”. This idea of endlessly tiring over someone or something despite understanding your inability to succeed. Of knowing your place, but still questioning the value of continuing onward anyway.

2. Cold Shoulder

With its twinkly bounce, Cold Shoulder is an underrated gem that glimmers in its distinct optimistic sound countered with intense lyrics. “Cold Shoulder” is arguably different than what we expect from Adele, leaning into the experimental sounds and dipping into her lower register. Sound-wise, the song leans on tinkling bells and violin sounds. But similarly, uses slow, near lethargic musical breaks to punctuate the song. Throughout, Adele doesn’t flaunt her vocal power, but focuses on the smoothness of her voice. The song is simple in the best possible way.

3. Set Fire to the Rain

Despite only peaking at number 11 on the U.S Billboard Charts, “Set Fire to the Rain” is raw, unfurling with unadulterated vigor through impressive vocal bravado from Adele, and represents one of the best instances of Adele’s vocal talent. Loud and veracious, the song crescendos in an impassioned chorus that has become recognizable and draws listeners in with its unclenching power. Listening to this song, the rise from somber to empowered is captivating, and the song understands this, as it grows with each chorus. And on a personal note: the perfectly belt-able breakup song.

4. Rolling in the Deep:

One of Adele’s most recognizable songs, “Rolling in the Deep” deserves a spot on this playlist for the sheer impact alone. Being the catalyst for Adele’s commercial breakthrough and emergence into international spotlight, “Rolling in the Deep” shot Adele further into “stardom” following the success of her previous album 19. The song is an entrancing mix of blues, pop, and soul. A delicate, yet undeniably powerful thanks to Adele’s vocal range. Musically, it’s power lies in the expanding intensity through the songs many bridges to culminate in a final chorus that everyone has sang along to at some point. Additionally, the music video for “Rolling in the Deep” is spectacular. Combining artistic set, cinematography, and interpretive dance in a visual that compliments the song.

4. Turning Tables

One of Adele’s lower charting songs (peaking at 68 in the U.S.). “Turning Tables” is an enchanting ballad that relies on its strong piano track. A song about gaining power, this piano track is a striking underscore to Adele’s increasing intensity and is the highlight of the song. Starting slow and growing with the lyrics, the development of the piano track parallels the vocals, weaving seamlessly. I recommend this song simply for its musical construction, the piano track, and Adele, a cunning siren that you can’t help but move towards.

5. Water Under the Bridge

Leaning into the pop elements of Adele’s music, the song opts to use drumbeats over piano. Unlike other songs, the use of multiple musical elements is a prominent feature—such as multiple layered tracks and drums— and a unique quality of the song. This isn’t to say the song lacks soulful quality, but pairs it with upbeat, pop adjacent sound to create a bouncier song. “Water Under the Bridge” is a good song to listen to casually. It fits itself into many playlists because of its musical versatility and ability to establish itself in the middle ground of soul and pop.

6. All I Ask

To start, “All I Ask” has a special place in my heart. I always cite it as my favorite Adele song, and I believe for good reason. This ballad encompasses the magic qualities essential to Adele and her music. Though provoking lyrics exploring the complexity of romantic relationships; unmatched vocal command; and a simple but rich piano track to score. The song culminates in an intimate song that is emotionally rich and musically beautiful, and exemplifies the power of Adele. Adele thrives in the simple and emotional, unchained by a necessity for intense musical production. There is no need for intense musical accompaniment, when Adele can prove the point through unfiltered emotion and otherworldly vocal technique.

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