We’ve been sitting on this review for a while, biding our time and just trying to figure out what exactly it is we like about this album. At this stage I should probably mention that I approached this album as a cynic, wondering how and why these two would collaborate. It’s also worth noting that it’s a mixed bag. There are very few remix albums out there that are full of good tracks, never mind great, and this album is no different. At times it seems to lose all sense of direction, resulting in a muddled mix.
But that’s not to say that there aren’t some truly outstanding tracks. I’d even go so far as to suggest that the majority of tracks on We’re New Here are more than worth a second look. Fair enough, some of the interludes are questionable. Sure, due to the mish-mash of styles the album at times lacks continuity, but when it works, it really really works. Tracks such as I’m New Here, Home and NY Is Killing Me (which has been loitering on the internet for what seems like an eternity) are likely to end up on my tracks of the year list.
I’m still not entirely sold on this album but despite that I’ve listened to it in its entirety at least five times. It’s certainly a confusing and challenging listen, but it is worth the effort. I think an album such as this will always be haunted with the question of why? But in the end, when it’s largely this good, no one really cares.
If you’re intrigued you can check out the album in its entirety on Spotify.