Once in a blue moon, an album comes along that stops you in your tracks, makes you question every life choice you've ever made, and leaves you reeling in a whirlwind of emotions. Sam Smith's sophomore effort, The Thrill Of It All, is not that album. From the opening track, it's clear that Smith is content to stay firmly within the realm of inoffensive, middle-of-the-road balladry. That's not to say there aren't a few standout moments – tracks like "Too Good at Goodbyes" and "Burning" showcase Smith's undeniable vocal talent – but for the most part, The Thrill Of It All feels like a watered-down version of Smith's debut. The problem with this album is that it lacks any real sense of urgency or innovation. Smith's voice is undeniably impressive, but without strong songwriting to back it up, it all starts to feel a bit superficial. The arrangements are lush and polished, but ultimately they lack the emotional depth that made Smith's earlier work so compelling. In the end, The Thrill Of It All is a competent but ultimately forgettable piece of pop music. Smith is a talented vocalist with a lot to offer, but on this album, he plays it safe to a fault. Here's hoping that next time around, he'll take a few more risks – we could all use a little more thrill in our lives.