Sam Smith, Diamonds | Track Review 🎵

Upon announcing their third studio album, Love Goes, Sam Smith drops yet another pop bop, the sleek “Diamonds.”

Sam Smith was one of many musicians to delay their highly anticipated studio album in 2020.  After releasing singles far in advance of their album release date, Smith ultimately scrapped their original third album, To Die For, and continued working on the project.  True to their word, their third studio album is arriving in 2020, nearly three years to the date after The Thrill of It All.  His newly released single, “Diamonds,” appears as the second track on Love Goes, which arrives October 30, 2020.

“Diamonds” has a lot that bodes well in its favor. It begins with a repetitive intro, which repeats the lyric, “Diamond” 16 times.  From there, we are blessed with lovely vocals by Sam Smith, which is the expectation from the Grammy winner.  Smith is supported by sleek production work.  It’s not overdone or overproduced in the least, yet, it still sounds very characteristic of 2020. As far as form, Smith and their writing team keep it simple and straightforward – nothing extraordinary.

Matters of the heart rule the theme – SHOCKER! Sam’s ex- was more about material things where they were about the relationship.  Even with lost love, “Diamonds” is definitely spirited, not downtrodden. Beginning with the first chorus, we’re treated to a danceable groove.  Furthermore, the catchy chorus instantly gets stuck in your head:

“My diamonds leave with you
You’re never gonna hear my heart break
Never gonna move in dark ways
Baby, you’re cruel
My diamonds leave with you
Material love won’t fool me
When you’re not here, I can’t breathe
Think I always knew
My diamonds leave with you.”

The groove continues on beyond the first chorus, which is a win. On verse two, we get more melodic variations, eliminating predictability. Where musicianship is concerned, I like how Smith begins singing in an undertone on the bridge, before rebuilding the intensity heading into the final chorus.  Again, “Diamonds” has lots that bodes well in its favor.

Final Thoughts 

Wow, I’ve written a lot about a three-and-a-half song.  Honestly, “Diamonds” is a strong showing for Sam Smith.  It’s not as impactful as “Stay With Me” mind you, but, it’s certainly a bop you’ll want to keep on repeat.

Sam Smith • Love Goes • Capitol • Release: 10.30.20

Photo Credit: Capitol