Ellie Goulding's highly-anticipated fourth studio album, Brightest Blue, marks the multi-platinum, singer/songwriter's first full-length in nearly five years following 2015's Delirium. The record is split into two sides to fully showcase both Goulding's artistic depth and commercial success - lead by Platinum singles "Close To Me" and "Hate Me." The full album was executive produced by Goulding and Joe Kearns with additional writing and production from Tobias Jesso Jr., Starsmith, ILYA, serpentwithfeet, Patrick Wimberly (of Chairlift) and Jim Eliot. Further collaborators include blackbear, Lauv, Diplo, Swae Lee and late rapper Juice WRLD.

Ellie explained that the first half of the record, "Reflects my vulnerability...it acknowledges a complex world where relationships still dictate our happiness and heartbreak and can still be the most painful thing in the world, no matter how enlightened you are. The tracks also symbolise growing up and becoming a woman." The second half, meanwhile, "Encapsulates my confident, brave and fearless side and features all my recent collaborations. I often find myself writing about my thoughts and emotions in a way that I know will be catchy and memorable. I will always seek to use my voice in ways that no one would ever expect and look to collaborate with the least likely, exciting and eclectic group of other artists."

Vinyl 2LP-set with etching.