Electronic producer James Blake has premiered a brand new song on Zane Lowe’s weeknight BBC Radio 1 show, and announced a new album. ‘Retrograde’ is the first single to be taken from Blake’s sophomore record, entitled Overgrown, which will be released on April 8th in the UK.
On the show, Blake discussed the progression of his sound, stating that Overgrown takes influence from the new experiences of being on tour and meeting new people since the release of his Mercury nominated, self-titled debut in February 2011. He also declared that he now feels more able to express himself musically and lyrically than on his first album, suggesting that his second album will be a lot more honest and personal.
‘Retrograde’ proposes a development in sound whilst still sticking to the combination of vocals, piano and electronic production. The track begins with Blake’s ardent voice accompanied by the piano and a sparse handclap before howling synthy beams pierce through the vocals. His backing vocals also provide a repetitive and catchy tune which continues from beginning to end, perfecting a sound with several layers, as perfected on his previous material.
Listen to ‘Retrograde’ below.
