Fred Again.. and Brian Eno’s collaboration album, Secret Life, marks an intriguing meeting of two distinct musical worlds. Released in 2023, this album represents a fusion of Fred Again..’s modern, sample-rich approach with Brian Eno’s ambient expertise. The outcome is a record that showcases both artists’ strengths but also reveals some contrasts in their styles.
Fred Again.., known for his innovative use of samples and vibrant production, initially captured attention with his Actual Life series. His approach to music, blending elements from various digital sources and personal recordings, created a fresh and engaging sound that resonated with many. His partnership with Skrillex and Four Tet highlighted his ability to create dynamic, energetic tracks, cementing his place in the electronic music scene.
Eno, on the other hand, has long been celebrated for his ambient work, influencing genres and artists with his pioneering techniques. His ambient landscapes often feature slow, evolving soundscapes, creating spaces for introspection and calm.
In Secret Life, Fred Again.. and Eno attempt to merge these approaches. The album, released on Four Tet’s Text label, takes Fred Again..’s sample-based compositions and slows them down to match Eno’s ambient style. The result is a collection of tracks that combine Eno’s atmospheric elements with Fred Again..’s signature sampling techniques.
However, the collaboration doesn’t fully bridge their stylistic differences. While the album is polished and meticulously produced, it sometimes struggles to capture the lively essence of Fred Again..’s earlier work. The tracks often lean towards a more restrained and somber mood, diverging from the communal energy that characterized Actual Life.
A standout moment is “Trying,” where the combination of ambient textures and Lola Young’s vocals creates a beautifully nostalgic sound. Yet, some tracks, like “Cmon,” seem to lack the momentum found in Fred Again..’s solo projects, as they struggle to develop beyond their initial ideas.
The use of lyrics from other songs is another notable aspect of Secret Life. Fred Again..’s reinterpretation of lines from Leonard Cohen and other artists adds a layer of familiarity but also raises questions about originality. While some of these reimagined lyrics work well, others, such as those from “Enough” and “Radio,” can feel less impactful due to their detached presentation.
Overall, Secret Life is a fascinating exploration of ambient and sample-based music. It highlights the strengths of both Fred Again.. and Brian Eno but also underscores the challenges of blending such distinct styles. The album serves as a reflective piece, offering a new perspective on Fred Again..’s work while honoring Eno’s ambient legacy.