Euphoria (Claire Richards album)

Euphoria is the second studio album and first cover album by English singer-songwriter Claire Richards. It was released on 25 August 2023 through Demon Music Group. The album features guest appearances by Australian musician Delta Goodrem and Andy Bell.

Background
Richards stated that the album is "personal" to her, trying to delve among her own roots and background for inspiration. She realised that, in order how to learn to sing, it happened through singing along to favourite artists, much of them covered on the record. She and her producer then compiled a list and picked their favourites to record. The recording process then became "the campest, possibly", quickly realising that they had put together an album with "gay anthems". As a result, the singer concluded that the record was "made for them", talking about LGBT community, and was subsequently glad to hear that they "did embrace it". One of the main influences behind the project was Swedish singer Loreen, whom she got to meet in person in June 2023. The title track and name of the album are a nod to her.

Upon release, Richards also revealed her "release day ritual", as she always goes out to buy her own albums on release day.

Singles

 * On 28 June 2023, Richards released the single "I Surrender" as the lead single from Euphoria.
 * On 26 July 2023, Richards released "Summer Night City", which features Erasure lead singer Andy Bell.
 * On 25 August 2023, "No More Tears (Enough Is Enough)" was released as the third single from the album. It features Australian singer Delta Goodrem.

Critical reception
Jeremy Williams-Chalmers of The Yorkshire Times opined that the "euphoric" album is an hommage to "female vocalists who have shaped and moulded her from a musical theatre style performer into a fully fledged pop icon", describing Richards' takes on the songs as "faithfully and loyally", as well as giving them "new life and new meaning". Mary Varvaris at The Music sought out the duet with Australian singer Delta Goodrem which she thought was "a brilliant track", "bringing their combined talents" to honour the original version. Varvaris highlighted the harmonisation of the pair's vocals, describing as fit enough to pull off the "disco-pop and empowerment of the original".

Track listing
All songs produced by Steve Anderson.