What makes Velvet by Adam Lambert notable?

Velvet received positive critical acclaim for its blend of nostalgia and modernity, showcasing Lambert's vocal prowess. The album includes the lead single 'Superpower,' which became a standout track, further solidifying Lambert's place in the contemporary pop landscape and contributing to discussions around LGBTQ+ representation in mainstream music. Released on January 1, 2020, Velvet marks Adam Lambert's fourth studio album, following his previous release, The Original High in 2015. At this point in his career, Lambert was transitioning from mainstream pop to a more personal and intimate sound, exploring themes of love and self-acceptance while embracing a retro aesthetic influenced by classic glam rock.

Velvet works well if you're into steady mid-tempo dance vibes, uplifting anthems for celebration and feel-good energy for gatherings.

How many songs are on Velvet?

Velvet has 13 tracks, running approximately 44 minutes.

Velvet

Adam Lambert · 2020

44 min · 13 tracks · electronic music

A vibrant fusion of dance-pop and synth-driven melodies that showcase Adam Lambert's powerful vocals and contemporary artistry.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Superpower — This track highlights Lambert's confident vocal delivery and contemporary production while addressing themes of empowerment and individuality.
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Roses — With its lush instrumentation and introspective lyrics, 'Roses' captures the essence of vulnerability and romantic longing that runs throughout the album.
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Closer to You — 'Closer to You' stands out for its emotive storytelling and melodic hooks, showcasing Lambert's ability to convey deep emotional resonance through pop sensibilities.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

49 /100

Foothills

Higher than 22% of albums we've rated

The album blends electronic pop with personal themes, showcasing Lambert's vocals but lacks standout compositional depth.

What we noticed

The album opens with a title track that establishes a mid-tempo groove, followed by the upbeat lead single 'Superpower' which features layered synths and vocal harmonies.
The sequencing includes a notable shift in tone around the middle, where tracks like 'Closer to You' introduce softer melodies before returning to more energetic pieces.

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: 5/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 6/10

Influence 2/10

Little footprint beyond its audience. 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
uplifting anthems for celebration
feel-good energy for gatherings
emotional depth with vibrant melodies

Maybe skip if you

seekers of instant gratification
prefer slower, contemplative sounds

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Late Career Highlight — Showcases continued vitality and evolution in Lambert's sound.
Career context: Released on January 1, 2020, Velvet marks Adam Lambert's fourth studio album, following his previous release, The Original High in 2015. At this point in his career, Lambert was transitioning from mainstream pop to a more personal and intimate sound, exploring themes of love and self-acceptance while embracing a retro aesthetic influenced by classic glam rock.
Stylistic neighbors: Sam Smith· Troye Sivan· Lady Gaga