On his final pre-release single “Don’t Be a Fool,” pop singer/songwriter Shawn Mendes proves he’s aiming for the ‘big-time’ with sophomore LP, Illuminate.

Canadian teen heartthrob Shawn Mendes gives listeners everywhere one final snapshot into Illuminate ahead of its September 23 release.  The final snapshot is another fantastic one, “Don’t Be a Fool.” Mendes has definitely stepped up his game on his sophomore album – lofty praise considering it still hasn’t arrived in its entirety.

“Don’t Be a Fool” features beautiful, mature vocals from Mendes.  Clearly, he has become a better musician since The Shawn Mendes EP and full-length debut, Handwritten. Like “Mercy” and “Ruin,” Mendes infuses every ounce of his passion.  The rasp and earnestness of his pipes is superb.

The sound is old-school – a bluesy, R&B record. It should feel totally anachronistic, but the market for old-school music is ripe and Mendes nails it.  The use of background vocals only amplifies the soulfulness. Vocally, Mendes definitely knows how to execute runs.

Final Thoughts

With “Don’t Be a Fool” and Illuminate as a whole, it feels as if Mendes is looking past teen pop stardom.  He seems to be focused on being an artist who appeals to everyone – that’s incredibly respectable.  “Don’t Be a Fool” is another fine musical performance from Mendes without question.

Shawn Mendes • Illuminate • Island • Release: 9.23.16

Photo Credit: Island