“It’s Only Love” is the latest single from X-Factor, Series 7 winner Matt Cardle. Taken from his sophomore album, The Fire, “It’s Only Love” was co-written by the 29 year old Cardle, alongside Paul Statham. Back in May, Cardle announced that he had parted ways with his X-Factor label, Columbia Records, explaining that it was in fact HIS choice. In the end, the label left him feeling unimportant and low priority, with Columbia instead choosing (wisely, in the end) to put more money and promo behind the now, internationally successful super-group One Direction. Fair enough.
Always a consistent performer during his season of The X-Factor, Cardle never really exuded any real POP STAR qualities. Sure, his voice was top notch, with a falsetto guaranteed to make you swoon, but personality wise…he was kind of a dud. I’m just glad he left on his own terms and is now making music that he can fully stand behind and be proud of. In September, indie label SO Recordings/Silva Screen Music Group announced the release of Cardle’s new album on October 29th.
The Fire features songwriting primarily by Cardle, with additional assistance from Eg White, Jack McManus, Jamie Hartman, Starsailor frontman James Walsh and others. First single “It’s Only Love” is the perfect vehicle for Cardle’s impressive instrument, allowing his vocal range to really shine, showcasing more of a rock-and-roll sound. While the album debuted at #8 on the UK Albums Chart, the single was less successful, peaking at #175 on the UK Singles Chart. Nevertheless, there’s surely less pressure on Cardle now that he’s an indie artist. While chart success would be nice, having a second top ten album is pretty sweet.
The Fire is available to download now (iTunes UK) and the second single, “Anyone Else” will be released January 13th. Check out the video for “It’s Only Love” BELOW.
Check out Matt Cardle on the web: