Ellie Goulding's 'Halcyon' review: It's on trend

Ellie Goulding's sophomore album "Halcyon" (Interscope) is what fashionistas would call "on trend." Goulding's delivery is a slightly more restrained, pop-oriented cousin to Florence Welch's, while her music straddles synth-pop and Skrillex-branded EDM -- in other words, a marketer's dream. Her collaboration with Calvin Harris is a surefire hit, with its likable scramble of Kate Bush, Rihanna and Erasure. "Anything Could Happen" is less frantic, but just as pleasant and poppy, sunnier than her surprise hit "Lights." Goulding is best known for singing at William and Kate's wedding reception, though "Halcyon" should easily convert that buzz into sales. Whether it will create fans, though, remains to be seen.

ELLIE GOULDING

"Halcyon"

GRADE B+

BOTTOM LINE All the makings of the "it girl" singer

SEE PHOTOSRock stars then and now