Breakthrough artist of 2014 Sam Smith has announced the release of his debut album, The Lonely Hour.

The past 6 months have been rather kind to Sam Smith, and you'd better get used to hearing him - a lot. First he was named winner of the Critic's Choice from the 2014 BRIT Awards and now he has been announced as the winner of the BBC's Sound of 2014, placing ahead of Ella Eyre, Banks, Sampha and George Ezra. Now, he has announced his debut album.

Named 'The Lonely Hour' Sam's debut album will be released May 26 and features ten tracks which are said to defy genres, with the singer saying that he wanted to 'take a risk'. The album features a long list of collaborators including: Fraser T Smith, Two Inch Punch, Eg White, Disclosure, Zane Lowe, Tourist and long term writing partner Jimmy Napes.

Listen to Sam Smith perform 'Nirvana' below 

Currently Smith is gearing up to embark on his first solo UK tour after a series of dates on the road with Disclosure and Naughty Boy. His solo tour dates are as follows. Tickets are on sale now. For more information visit Gigwise Gig Tickets.

February 23 The Old Market Brighton
February 24 O2 Sheperds Bush Empire
February 27 The Ritz Manchester
February 28 The Library at HMV Institute Birmingham
March 1 Liquid Room Edinburgh
May 30 The Roundhouse London