Holly Humberstone- Cruel World (review)

Published by Mason Oldridge, 10 April 2026

Singer-songwriter Holly Humberstone is back with her follow-up album.

The record opens with strings-based instrumental intro So It Starts… The tracklist is then full of Humberstone’s unique sound. The first three singles, all commercially-friendly and enjoyable, feature early on, while White Noise is a stronger track as it contains a really catchy chorus elevated by a backing bassline. Acoustic offering Lucy serves as a mid-album slow song, whereas Peachy is a piano ballad nearer the end. However, fourth single and closing track Beauty Pageant has to be the highlight because it's a hauntingly beautiful and emotional song, seemingly about beauty standards and body image as Humberstone heartbreakingly sings “come on and make me pretty” in stunning falsetto. It also includes a nice nod to her Lincolnshire origin.

Once again, Humberstone’s music is complimented by clean production and dreamy vocals. In a world of sexualised female pop, Humberstone shines as an example of a pure artist that lets her work do the talking, so much so that the explicit language feels out of place.

Despite not a lot of variation between tracks, there is enough to differentiate one from another as Humberstone’s raw talent continues to flourish.

7/10