One of the most amazing things about music is how it can trigger memories and emotions. When James Blake released his self-titled debut album in 2011, it was a cold winter here in New York and I was working a soulless job with an emotionally abusive and manipulative boss. Sadly, listening to that record now brings me back to that headspace because the album was on constant rotation for me at the time. Despite the pain it recalls, it's still a remarkable album to me and one I love. Luckily, I no longer have that horrible job or know that evil person so listening to new James Blake shouldn't carry that same emotional baggage. Last month, the singer announced a new album was coming in March and this week, Blake shared the stunning track "I Had a Dream She Took My Hand." What at first appears to be a soulful sample from a lost '50s doo-wop song turns out to be a 2019 track from LA band Thee Sinseers and Blake uses it wonderfully to build a dreamlike vibe while his ethereal vocals reach for the stars. It's a lovely pop tune that sounds effortless, yet striking. It recalls those moments when we first heard Blake put his astounding vocals on a track and they're back, front and center, to hold your attention in a wistfully romantic affair.
Trying Times is out March 13.
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