GRACIE ABRAMS’ “THE SECRET OF US” ALBUM REVIEW
BY HUNTER GIBSON PHOTOS BY PROVIDED
2024 has been one of the biggest years for music in a long time. Examples include, album after album, many of the major artists like Taylor Swift’s “The Tortured Poets Department” and some new and exciting work from smaller artists like Gracie Abrams, who released her sophomore album, “The Secret Of Us,” on June 21.
This album is different from a lot of her earlier work, both sonically and in the sense of maturity and growth. Abrams said she felt happier writing and creating this album than previous albums, which is obvious in everything from production to lyrics. Even in more glum and slow songs, one can feel the maturation from the rest of her discography.
Abrams has undoubtedly proven to be one to watch over the past few years. In 2023, she opened for Taylor Swift’s “The Eras Tour” and was nominated for her first Grammy for Best New Artist. Aside from opening for Swift, Abrams was also able to snag Swift as a feature on her latest album in the song, “us.” This track is unmatched when it comes to lyricism, production and seamlessly blends Abrams’ and Swift’s voices in the bridge.
Some other notable tracks from this album include “Blowing Smoke,” which has become a fan favorite. This song describes Abrams falling out with someone she still cares for but who is upset with her for telling them the truth about her feelings. It is a song about owning up to one’s mistakes.
Abrams finds a way to connect with her listeners and has a way of telling her own deeply personal stories while still resonating with her audience.
One of my personal favorite tracks from the album is “I Knew It, I Know You.” This song describes the feeling of knowing things will end badly because you know someone better than they know themselves. Despite this, you still let their mistakes happen and push things aside because you love them, but sometimes that is not enough.
Abrams has said she titled the album “The Secret Of Us” which feels like a book title. This album is a book you want to pick up again and again until you truly know all of her secrets. This is Abrams’ best project to date, and it is no secret that this album was a monumental moment for Gracie Abrams’ blossoming career.
