CMYK 002

by

James Blake

[My earlier review disappeared]

I listened to this right after seeing James Blake at an intimate piano concert in Brooklyn. This release harkens back to earlier releases, especially under the 1-800-DINOSAUR umbrella. This reminds me of possibly my favourite JB release – 200 Press.

During the concert, JB talked about how he felt oppressed under the control of his label, how he wasn't able to make direct connections with fans, and how he made no money in a year, even with constant touring and releasing music. All of this resulted in him leaving his label to release music independently (and starting Vault...that's a different discussion).

I'm excited to hear what independent JB has to offer. He talked a lot about how he's bored of working with many artists and wanting to get away from collabs (is this....about Frank Ocean?). It might be a tell that the only cameo on this EP is Lil Yachty (or a promo for Bad Cameo, their joint album that just dropped?).

In any case, this EP is a promising start for a new JB.