Ellie Goulding might be busy hitting the big time over in the States, but she hasn't neglected her UK fans. Hanging On is a more of a taster of what we can expect from her forthcoming follow-up album to 'Lights' rather than an actual single and follows previous collaboration with Tinie Tempah, Wonderman. Just ignore the fairly unflattering packshot.
Hanging On is a step away from the folky, electro-pop 'Lights'. The harp of the opening instantly brings Florence + The Machine to mind, but the track soon moves into more ethereal electronica - like a synthed up Your Song - followed by a satisfying bass drop. All of this accompanies a vocal that, like it or lump it, is as squeaky as ever. The final moments include a typical (and unnecessary) rap from Tinie, beginning with the obligatory "YEAH" and ending with the appalling "she broke my heart I took some Gaviscon". Really Tinie? REALLY?! It totally ruins the haunting mood the opening generates.
All of this is well and good, until you realise this is in fact a cover of Active Child's track of the same name. The mesmeric accompaniment and Pat Grossi's unique vocal haunt with far more impact than Goulding's track. But hey - though Goulding has lost out this time, if you're yet to listen to Active Child's material then now is the perfect time.
3/5
Listen: Hanging On is available for free legal download here. Active Child's debut album 'You Are All I See' that features Hanging On is available now - listen on Spotify here.