The Raw and Personal Sound of Sudan Archives’ Latest Album, The BPM
A Vintage Toolkit for Modern Expression
Sudan Archives embraces a unique sonic landscape, utilizing a vintage toolkit that includes the Roland SP-404 and various digital audio workstations (DAWs). These tools emulate the iconic drum machines that defined the vibrant sounds of 1980s Chicago house and ’90s Detroit techno. Collaborating with her twin sister, cousins, and close friends from the Midwest, Sudan crafts a sound that, while rooted in nostalgia, deeply explores personal and cultural histories. Her alter-ego, “Gadget Girl,” adds a tech-augmented flair to her identity, further enhancing the album’s thematic depth.
A Breakup Record with a Rebound Energy
In the three years since her previous album, Sudan has navigated significant personal changes, including a breakup with a long-time partner. This transition marks a departure from the incense-scented atmospheres of her earlier works, allowing Sudan to reclaim her identity and delve into the confessional potential of dance music. The BPM serves as both a breakup album and a celebration of resilience, featuring tracks that oscillate between heartache and the thrill of new beginnings. The opening track, “Dead,” sets a poignant tone, while the closer, “Heaven Knows,” encapsulates the emotional journey from sorrow to hope.
Soundscapes of Contrast
While The BPM may have mainstream appeal, it is also Sudan’s most unrefined release to date, starkly contrasting with the polished sounds of her previous album, Natural Brown Prom Queen. If that work was characterized by sun-drenched vibes, The BPM captures a wintry essence. Lyrically, Sudan weaves fantasies of escape to Costa Rica and Dubai, juxtaposed with tectonic bass lines and stark melodic contrasts. The contributions from the Chicago string quartet D-Composed bring depth to her violin parts, enhancing the overall texture of the album.
Dynamic Arrangements and Emotional Nuances
Sudan often integrates her string accompaniments into the intros, bridges, and outros of her tracks, creating a dynamic that reflects her emotional state rather than providing a straightforward release. The unexpected inclusion of an Irish jig in “She’s Got Pain” serves only to intensify the album’s relentless energy. Tracks like “Ms. Pac Man” and the standout “Noire” plunge listeners into darker emotional terrains. Throughout the album, Sudan’s characters navigate their struggles with urgency, embodying movement as a survival tactic in a world that feels increasingly oppressive.
Conclusion
The BPM is a testament to Sudan Archives’ ability to blend personal narrative with innovative soundscapes. It balances the rawness of her experiences with the high-energy beats that characterize dance music, making it a compelling listen. As she continues to push musical boundaries while digging into her emotional depths, Sudan invites listeners to join her on a journey through heartbreak, resilience, and the transformative power of music.
FAQs
What instruments does Sudan Archives use in The BPM?
Sudan Archives employs a Roland SP-404 and DAWs that emulate vintage drum machines from the 1980s and 1990s to create her unique sound.
Who are the collaborators on The BPM?
Collaborators on the album include her twin sister, cousins, and friends from the Midwest, contributing to the personal and intimate nature of the music.
What themes are explored in The BPM?
The BPM explores themes of heartbreak, resilience, and the confessional potential of dance music, reflecting Sudan’s personal experiences and emotional journey.
How does The BPM differ from Sudan Archives’ previous work?
The BPM is her grittiest release, featuring less polished production compared to her earlier album, Natural Brown Prom Queen, and embraces a rawer sound that resonates with the current cultural moment.
