In her sophomore album, Gabrielle Aplin, known for her surreal-sounding voice, turns from the light, ethereal music from her debut album to a more edgy sound that showcases the range her voice is capable of.

The title track “Light Up the Dark,” sets the overall tone of the album with commanding chords backed by Aplin’s soulful voice that sounds familiar but shows the difference between this and her past work. “And when the love is pouring out/ I wanna be the one to light up the dark in you,” Aplin sings infectiously which makes the chorus is so catchy that you’re singing it halfway through the first time you listen to the song.

The lineup also features feel-it-in-your-bones beats like “Skeleton,” “Anybody Out There” and “Sweet Nothing” along with haunting, rich ballads like “The House We Never Built,” “What Did You Do?” and “Hurt.” The vocals paired with the chords in the bolder songs rip you away from the world until you’re suddenly brought back with her calm but resolute voice and the soft strings of the guitar.

Admittedly the most natural ballad on the album, “A While” could be considered one of the best songs in the collection. The singer pleads you to stay with her in this hidden gem while the song is stripped of its shell leaving it vulnerable and strangely beautiful.

The first time listening through the album, the stark difference between 2013 Aplin and 2015 Aplin is distinct and already puts a skeptical look on a listener’s face. The potential of each song isn’t fully realized as the listener listens warily. Aplin’s vocals can be fully appreciated and each song can show its full potential when the listener relaxes and familiarizes themselves with the new style.

Overall, Aplin shows her ability to expand her sound while not losing the innocent charm of the debut album — albeit with a more mature take. Her ability to fit comfortably in her new sound gives the album an overall rating of an A as she gets deeper into what her music is. Even though Aplin has begun to take on new ways to experiment with her music and voice, her endearing spirit remains the same.