What makes The Original High by Adam Lambert notable?

The Original High debuted at number 8 on the Billboard 200, making it Lambert's highest-charting album since his debut. Critics praised its cohesive sound and emotional depth, with publications like Rolling Stone highlighting Lambert's vocal prowess and maturity as a songwriter, cementing his position in the pop landscape. Released on June 12, 2015, The Original High is Adam Lambert's third studio album, marking a return to form after the more eclectic Trespassing in 2012. This album showcases his growth as an artist and features collaborations with notable producers like Max Martin, emphasizing a polished pop sound that resonates with contemporary trends.

Who is The Original High for?

The Original High works well if you're into steady mid-tempo dance vibes, emotional narratives through beats and for evening gatherings.

How many songs are on The Original High?

The Original High has 11 tracks, running approximately 40 minutes.

The Original High

Adam Lambert · 2015

40 min · 11 tracks · electronic music

A pulsating blend of dance-pop and synth-driven melodies that explores themes of love and loneliness with shimmering production.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Ghost Town — This lead single stands out for its haunting atmosphere and introspective lyrics about isolation, setting the tone for the entire album.
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The Original High — The title track captures the essence of the album with its upbeat tempo and lyrics reflecting on love's exhilarating highs and inevitable lows.
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Another Lonely Night — This track combines catchy hooks with poignant themes of longing and solitude, showcasing Lambert's ability to merge emotion with danceable beats.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

55 /100

Foothills

Higher than 45% of albums we've rated

The album features strong production and cohesive sound but lacks standout compositions that elevate it further.

What we noticed

Each song features layered synths and rhythmic bass lines, creating a consistent dance-pop sound throughout the record.
Several tracks employ a call-and-response vocal technique, enhancing the emotional themes of love and loneliness.
The album closes with 'Heavy Fire', which gradually fades out, leaving an echoing sense of unresolved emotion.

Composition 25% of the score: 6/10
Craft 20% of the score: 7/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 6/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 8/10

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

steady mid-tempo dance vibes
emotional narratives through beats
for evening gatherings
uplifting energy for social moments

Maybe skip if you

prefer instant gratification tracks
seek long-form experimental pieces

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — This album marked a return to chart success and wider recognition for Lambert.
Career context: Released on June 12, 2015, The Original High is Adam Lambert's third studio album, marking a return to form after the more eclectic Trespassing in 2012. This album showcases his growth as an artist and features collaborations with notable producers like Max Martin, emphasizing a polished pop sound that resonates with contemporary trends.
Stylistic neighbors: Sam Smith· Troye Sivan· Lady Gaga