Let The Light In

Let The Light In is the fourth studio album by American singer-songwriter Ashley! released through Fusion Records on October 20th, 2014. The album is viewed as a progression from her previous album, Silver Lining (2013), whilst keeping the same positive outlook. The record is mainly pop, with other influences such as rock and power ballads. Using a number of past collaborators, the singer also worked with new producers to help develop on the sound of her previous records. The majority of Let The Light In revolves around themes of positivity, love, light and self-empowerment.

Upon release, the album gained overwhelming positive reviews, with critics praising the overall collection's positivity and unity, commenting on Ashley's ability to 'slot tracks together to give the happiest listening experience possible'. Many commented on the fun, yet matured lyrics and production of the album as a whole. Some slightly mixed reviews suggested that the album was too similar to her previous efforts, which Ashley brushed off in refusing to fix 'a record that wasn't broken'.

Ashley collaborated with three artists on the record; Syd Wolfe, Violetta Dinozzio and Regina Harper.

The release of the album was proceeded with Glitter, which featured Ashley's boss and friend Syd Wolfe, which was released on the same date as the album, as the album's lead single. Prior to the album and singles release, Ashley released two promotional singles, Rainbow and In This Moment, as well as Atmosphere as a free download in partnership with Starbucks and iTunes, which acted as a b-side for her collaboration with Eoin O'Neill, Atmosphere. Rainbow was voted with an overwhelming majority to be released as the first promotional single on September 22nd, with In This Moment following on October 6th.

Critical Reception
Upon release, Let The Light In received positive reviews, with critics once again commending the singer's 'overwhelming positivity but variation in material style and substance'. Digital Spy gave the record almost full marks, settling for 4.5 out of 5 stars, noticing the 'growing up' she has done over her career, praising her 'sweet but not sickly' transformation by letting the light in' and improving on the mistakes made previously.

One mixed review, commenting on the lack of progression with the themes and imagery of the album, and even compared the titles of the current and previous album as a metaphor in looking for the light, suggesting she should have waited longer to find more inspiration for the collection, but added that the material was 'strong enough to forget the similarities for a while'.

Commercial Performance
Upon release, alongside the album's lead single, the album premiered at the top spot with 116,207 copies sold. This was lower than previous album, Silver Lining, although expected, due to the general drop in album sales at the time but noticeably higher than sophomore album, Exclamation Declaration. The singer also managed success in the States, with the album peaking at number four, her highest to date in her home country. In the UK, during it's second week...

Chart Run
Week 1 - 116,207 (#1)

Week 2 - 215,105 (+98,898) (#2)