Ellie Goulding to release new album ‘Halcyon’ in October

Ellie Goulding is proof that slow and steady still can win the race.

The U.K. sensation has continued her (slow) break into American consciousness with her 2010 debut, “Lights.” Just as the title track is enjoying a steady climb up the U.S. Hot 100 -- it’s currently peaking at No. 4 after spending 31 weeks on the chart -- the import is ready to issue her sophomore disc.

Goulding has announced that she will follow up “Lights” with “Halcyon,” on Oct. 9.

“This album for me is a journey from dark into light, from confusion to understanding,” Goulding said in a statement. “I didn’t set out to write a breakup record, but I think it became one.”

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“Halcyon” was entirely written and co-produced by Goulding, who recorded most of the album in a converted barn in her hometown in Hay Valley, England, with producer Jim Elliot. The disc’s first single, “Anything Could Happen,” will be released Aug. 21.

“Lights,” was the bestselling debut album of 2010 in the U.K. and garnered raves for its blend of electro, folk and pop. When Goulding talked with The Times for a feature in 2011 around her debut at the Coachella Valley Music & Arts Festival in Indio, Calif., she said she realized the importance of making an impact on the U.S. music scene, and she was fine with it -- as long as it was on her terms.

“There are always expectations of British artists to eventually go over and try to crack it here,” she said. “I’ve built a little fan base back home, so I hope the same thing happens here. But I don’t want a big commercial push. I’d rather it happen kind of naturally, through word of mouth.”

As for the ex-boyfriend at the center of “Halcyon”? Maybe he can link up with the inspiration behind Adele’s breakup opus “21” and become fast friends (Goulding is reportedly dating DJ wunderkind Skrillex).

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