Through this second release, Noah Cyrus introduces herself as a force stronger than the diminishing label of ‘the youngest Cyrus’. ‘The Hardest Part’, which leans into her Nashville roots by mixing acoustic pop and country, is simultaneously contemplative and peaceful. On this album, she appears preoccupied with getting to know herself through emotive vocals and lyrics accompanied by soft instrumentals, lingering on subjects such as family, relationships and addiction. A sweet addition is a version of the opening track ‘Noah (Stand Still)’ - all about a piece of advice from her father - that features vocals from Billy Ray himself. An evocative listen. LT

Out now on BMG