Album review: Camila Cabello, Camila

Camila Cabello is thriving after her split from Fifth Harmony. Photo / Supplied

Camila Cabello's debut solo album was going to be all about her split from girl group Fifth Harmony.

It had a single about betrayal and hurt, an equally on-the-nose title (The Hurting. The Healing. The Loving) and all the makings of a terrible first solo release.

But while Fifth Harmony were making petty moves to distance themselves, Cabello released Havana, the success of which has to be the ultimate revenge.

After that, the album title changed, the original single quietly disappeared and the resulting release is as if Fifth Harmony never existed.

It's a surprisingly strong pop album, elevated by its Latino influences and Cabello's breathy vocals. It's also surprisingly low-key, focusing on Cabello's voice and stories in a way which seems very comfortable and self-assured.

There are love ballads, chill hip-hop inspired tracks, pop hits and easy-going Latino dance hits with standout tracks including Never Be The Same, She Loves Control and of course, Havana.

If this is Cabello finding her feet, there's no knowing where she'll go next.

Camila Cabello, Camila

Artist: Camila Cabello
Album: Camila
Label: Sony Music
Verdict: A cool, confident and catchy as hell debut.