Previously, I reviewed Gracie Abrams’ new album, “The Secret of Us,” which was released on June 21st. Four months later, on Oct. 22, Abrams’ released the Deluxe version.
With this version, she introduced four new songs: “Cool,” “That’s So True,” “I Told You Things,” and “Packing it Up.”
Each song is incredibly diverse, individually capturing a very unique melody and lyrical subject of matter.
“Cool” comprises of spunky guitar and piano rhythms and spirited words. This one was one of my top listens on the album. The song is about the pressure to act “cool” and “indifferent” after being manipulated in a breakup. It emphasizes the feelings of heartbreak in a spiteful manner, which is what I enjoy so much about it.
Abrams’ also carries the idea of her ex’s rotten dating history in the song, mentioning how they “stranded Sadie and Sarah when they opened up,” which emphasizes her spiteful and regretful feelings.
“That’s So True” was my personal favorite, and it looks like I wasn’t alone. This song turned out to be a fast hit, rising quickly on the Billboard Top 100, and going viral on social media. “That’s So True” covers the jealousy of finding out that an ex has found someone else. Abrams’ betrayed feelings are delivered with excited guitar tunes, sarcastic words, and upbeat production. She also recently released a live version of this song on Spotify in response to the popular demand.
“I Told You Things” is an incredibly melancholy song full of vulnerability. It centers around struggling to let someone go and regretting them. Abrams’ sings “I told you things that I never said/To anybody else, I regret them” alluding to her pain and regret due to this loss of a breakup. “I Told You Things” is a very intense song full of passion and a mix of emotions. It also has a powerful buildup, beginning with quiet sounds and leading up to fervent words.
The final song released in the “The Secret of Us” Deluxe was “Packing it Up.” “Packing it Up” is very soft and peaceful, being the perfect song to end the album with. It is about finding love after feeling like giving up on romance. The lyrics “I swear that I was looking for much/But that’s just when you happened” display this prospect. Compared to Abram’s other songs, this one felt very sweet, and like a relaxing deep breath out.
Overall, Abram’s clearly outdid herself with these beautifully written bonus tracks. Not only did she come out with four new songs, but she also released live versions of “I Love You, I’m Sorry,” “I Knew It, I Knew You,” and “Free Now.” These versions induced a positive uproar from fans, and are available on Spotify, along with the other songs. “The Secret of Us” Deluxe did not disappoint in the slightest, and I am sure that I will continue to listen to these new releases over and over again. Go listen to “The Secret of Us” Deluxe on all streaming platforms.
