In a delightful surprise for fans, Gracie Abrams has released a deluxe version of her acclaimed album, “The Secret of Us” initially launched in June 2024.
This new edition features the original 13 songs alongside 4 fresh songs and 3 live versions of her popular hits, including “I Love You, I’m Sorry,” “I Knew It, I Know You,” and “Free Now.
Since she began her music career in 2019, Abrams has been known for her willingness to explore emotional depths, capturing the essence of young love through her distinctive, shaky vocals. Her music serves as an intimate diary, chronicling the complexities of early romance and the contradictions that come with it. With the latest release, she continues to delve into these themes, offering fans a glimpse into her growth as an artist.
According to Apple Music, Abrams, who is fresh off her teenage years, understands that risk and reward go hand in hand. “The album is kind of like the inner tornado,” she reflects. “When you’re trying to present a way and then it just doesn’t actually ultimately work.” This candid approach resonates throughout the deluxe edition, as she navigates the emotions associated with young love.
Larissa Martins, a junior at Waterford High School says her favorite track is “That’s So True:” “It really is a song built from jealousy and anger, which tied together make it such a powerful song.” “The lyrics display so many emotions I relate to, and the beat and tone changes my enjoyment.”
Martins prefers the deluxe version, noting that “That’s So True” adds a personal touch, connecting listeners to shared experiences. “It gives the album an even more personal feel,” she adds
However, Martins acknowledges a strong appreciation for Abrams’ previous work, stating, “In my opinion, no (the deluxe version isn’t better), just because ‘Good Riddance’ exists. Both albums are really good but you can tell ‘Good Riddance’ is incredibly well-written, and I personally like more songs on that album than ‘ The Secret of Us’”.
Another student here at WHS, Leah Sanders, is also a fan of Abrams but probably not as much as Larissa. “I prefer her normal album of “The Secret of Us” just because I haven’t really got a chance to listen to the deluxe version.” Leah likes Gracie’s more up beat music, rather than her sad music, which the album has a mix of both.
As fans dive into the deluxe edition, they are reminded of Abrams’ unique ability to articulate the bittersweet moments of youth, solidifying her place in the contemporary music landscape.