Fred again.. ‘Ten Days’: less adrenaline, more heart

It’s probably one of the most anticipated albums of this year. Fred again.. “ten days” is out at midnight in your time zone. To celebrate the release, Fred again has personally sent the album to various users who have set up listening sessions around the world. We were at one of them. And we listened to it but, more important, we felt it.

But, let’s take it slow.

Fred again.. has carved out a unique niche for himself, blending intimate, personal narratives with pulsating beats and nonstop drums.

His latest offering, “Ten Days,” marks a significant evolution in his artistic journey. It presents a more introspective and nuanced approach to his signature sound.

the days, the concept

In true Fred again.. fashion, the album features a series of deep, chill, and UK garage-inspired tunes. However, what sets this album apart is its innovative structure: ten voice notes from various people, each serving as an introduction to a corresponding track.

Doing that, the album resulted in a total of 20 tracks that weave together to create a tapestry of sound and emotion.

So let’s dive into the album.

“ten days” opens with “.one,” a voice note that serves as a sonic palette for what’s to come. It seamlessly transitions into “i adore u.” This track, a standout moment from Fred’s Lollapalooza set, samples heartfelt lyrics from Obongjayar’s 2022 debut album. Dedicated to Fred’s sister, it sets the tone for the personal nature of the entire album.

As we progress through the tracklist, each voice note (“.two,” “.three,” and so on) acts as a bridge. They connect the listener to the next musical piece.

One of the strengths of “ten days” lies in its collaborations. “ten,” featuring US singer-songwriter Jozzy, showcases Fred’s ability to blend his electronic sensibilities with more traditional songwriting. The result is a track that feels both fresh and familiar.

A standout moment comes with “fear less,” featuring the incredible vocals of Sampha. This exclusive album track deviates from Fred’s usual style. It focuses on melodic lines and dreamy harmonies with minimal percussion.

The long-awaited collaboration “glow,” featuring Duskus, Four Tet, and Skrillex, is another highlight. Starting with a hypnotic plucked theme, it progresses into a chill yet captivating beat. This track showcases a new side of Skrillex and Four Tet while still maintaining Fred’s signature touch.

“ten days” is a shift in tone

“Ten Days” marks a shift from Fred again..’s previous works. While his earlier albums leaned heavily into UK garage and faster percussive rhythms, this new offering takes a more restrained approach. Tracks like “just stand there” featuring Soak and “where will i be” with Emmy Lou Harris showcase a more mellow, introspective side of Fred’s production.

The album emotional depth is palpable. Each track feels like a personal statement, a snapshot of a moment or feeling. “i saw you” exudes nostalgia and wistfulness, putting the listener in a contemplative mood. The country-tinged “where will i be” with Emmy Lou Harris is a surprising yet welcome addition.

The album closes with “backseat,” featuring The Japanese House & Scott Hardkiss. It’s a fitting end to the journey, soft and intimate, encapsulating the overall mood of the album.

This track, like many others on “Ten Days,” feels less like a traditional dance floor filler and more like a soundtrack to personal reflection.

Fred has delivered an album that feels more suited to intimate listening sessions.

It’s the kind of record you might put on during a quiet evening at home, a long drive, or a moment of personal reflection.

So, what’s Fred again..’s ten days album?

“Ten Days” is not the album I expected from Fred again.., but it might be the album I didn’t know I needed.

It’s a mature, introspective work that showcases Fred’s growth as an artist and his willingness to take risks. While it may not deliver the same adrenaline rush as his previous releases, it offers something equally valuable: a space for reflection, connection, and emotional resonance.

This album feels less like a collection of tracks and more like a curated experience. It’s the perfect soundtrack for those moments when you need to disconnect from the world and reconnect with yourself or loved ones.

In an industry that often prioritizes high-energy bangers and festival anthems, Fred again.. has dared to slow things down, to create space for reflection and emotion.

“ten days” may not be the album that dominates the festival’s main stages, but it’s the album that will soundtrack countless personal moments and memories. And in doing so, it achieves something far more lasting and meaningful.

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