After four years in the making, British singer Adele has finally returned with her latest album 25. Her third album includes eleven songs that prove her vocals did not slump during her time away from the limelight.

Adele marked her return by releasing the hit single, “Hello.” This song may just be one the greatest karaoke songs of the decade. Her natural vocals, paired with the track’s  mellow beat make it nearly impossible not to break out singing the second you hear her say, “Hello, it’s me.”

Other songs offer more of a dramatic, slower sound. Each of them, however, provide profound and sentimental lyrics that gives the album its strength. In my opinion, the best lyrics are found on “When We Were Young.” The song is built around the idea of seizing every moment in life because you will never be as young as you are in the present.

While most of the songs revolve around relationships and moving on, the storytelling within this album shows how much she has matured as an artist. On her initial album, 19, Adele’s music dealt with the uncertainty of relationships and the heartbreak that goes with them. However, 25 reveals how much she has matured given her music is now accepting past mistakes and looking to the future.

In comparison to her sophomore album, 21, I think that 25 actually reigns supreme. With her return, Adele has brought a new edge that was absent in her previous music. Her vocals are utterly impeccable on this album, and the songs carry immense range in sound.

Following her four year withdrawal from public attention, it’s reassuring to know that Adele is back and better than ever.