Monsters (Tom Odell album)
Monsters is the fourth studio album by British singer-songwriter Tom Odell, released on July 9, 2021, through Columbia Records. The album is a follow-up to his 2018 album, Jubilee Road.
The album is broadly divided into two sections, reflecting a contrast in Odell's mental state during its creation. The first half of the album, often referred to as the "monster" side, explores themes of anxiety, addiction, and mental health struggles. These songs tend to be more electronically driven and raw in their production, reflecting the internal turmoil Odell was experiencing.
The latter half of the album shifts towards a more hopeful and reflective tone, focusing on themes of recovery, love, and acceptance. The production becomes more acoustic and stripped-back, showcasing Odell's piano playing and songwriting abilities.
Notable singles from the album include "numb," "monster v.1," "money," and "lose you again." The album received generally positive reviews, with critics praising Odell's vulnerability and honesty in addressing his personal struggles through his music. Monsters debuted in the UK Top 5, further solidifying Odell's position as a prominent figure in contemporary singer-songwriter circles.