Uncovering Gracie Abrams’ ‘The Secret of Us’

Gracie Abrams has absolutely blown up as an artist in the past two years. Just a little over a year after releasing her debut album, Good Riddance, Abrams has come back from touring worldwide with Taylor Swift to bring us her sophomore album, The Secret of Us. Starting the album cycle off with the much-anticipated release of “Close to You” (a leaked song that fans have been begging for years for an official release), Abrams’ newest entry into her catalogue pays homage to her previous work, while expanding on the ways in which she has grown and changed in the short time she’s been in the limelight.

The daughter of film produce and director J.J. Abrams and public relations executive Katie McGrath, Abrams’ has faced her fair share of nepo baby allegations. While I cannot deny that Gracie’s parents’ connections likely played a role in getting her exposed to record label executives and helped propel her career, the artistry of The Secret of Us proves that those industry connections are in no way wasted on her.

Characterized by Abrams’ mature and intimate lyrics, listening to The Secret of Us feels like taking a peer right into her innermost thoughts and feelings. This is the kind of album that strikes you from the first listen and doesn’t let go. While sonically cohesive, each song still feels distinct throughout the entire 47 minute runtime. Abrams explores the complexities of heartbreak, culpability, female friendships, obsessive crushes, and just all of the big feelings that come with being in your twenties.

I’ll now divulge in The Secret of Us by spotlighting a few of my favorite tracks from the album.

“Close to You”

“Let it Happen”

“Us”

“Good Luck Charlie”

“Risk”

“Free Now”

Conclusion

With The Secret of Us Gracie Abrams has delivered an album that is deeply personal while at the same time being universally relatable. Rather than fall into the sophomore slump, Gracie has proven that she can follow up on and expand the success that she saw with her first album, Good Riddance. With intimate lyrics, delicate melodies, infectious choruses, engaging bridges, and authentic storytelling, Abrams has cemented herself as one of the most promising artists in pop today. This album is a testament to the power of authentic musicianship, and is a glimpse into what the future may hold for Gracie Abrams.