10 Best UK Albums Of 2019

2. James Blake - Assume Form

Over in America, James Blake is probably best known for his collaborations with Travis Scott, Frank Ocean, Kendrick Lamar, Beyonce and so on. Over here in the UK, he’s been carving out a very distinct niche for himself for the best part of a decade now. His preceding albums established what is known as the “James Blake “sound. Electronic ambience, an extremely distinct voice and soulful piano work inspired by Stevie Wonder. He’s also been a very inventive collaborator. He’s worked with Brian Eno, RZA and Bon Iver, a trio of artists you wouldn’t normally group together at all.

Melancholy was, for the large part, what tied together a lot of the themes of his work. Not that anything is wrong with this, it made for amazing music. But it became apparent that James Blake had exhausted this aspect of his sound, and that became obvious just from the collaborators on Assume Form. Travis Scott, Metro Boomin, Rosalia and Andre 3000 signalled a new direction.

Assume Form is a celebration of vulnerability as a by product of being in love. He has now found strength in this idea. Mile High, whilst not as poignant as songs like the title track or Lullaby for my Insomniac, is a memorable moment on the album. His distinct voice coupled with Travis’ trademark autotune is a match made in heaven. The song feels like an exploration of both the emotional and physical aspects of intimacy.

Can’t Believe The Way We flow is the most overtly romantic song James Blake has ever written. This song sees him shed himself of all ego and his insular nature.

Where’s The Catch is the one moment in the album where love and its ability to provide happiness is questioned. Andre provides one of the best rap verses of the year, speaking on his paranoia that his happiness will eventually collapse.

The album's closer is framed as a lullaby, but it's almost too beautiful to want to fall asleep to. Rather you want to repeat the album as soon as it drifts off.

Assume Form is the most mature, euphoric, romantic and fully realised album of James Blake’s career so far.