Trying Times feels like James Blake hitting reset in real time. It’s softer, warmer, and way more grounded than some of his earlier, more fragmented work, but still carries that same emotional weight he’s known for.
This time around, there’s less hiding behind heavy production and more leaning into real instruments and space. The songs don’t rush you, they kind of sit with you. It’s reflective, a bit raw, and feels like someone figuring things out as they go rather than trying to tie everything up neatly.
What’s really interesting is the role Jameela Jamil played on this album. As an executive producer, she wasn’t just in the background, she helped shape the direction of the project. You can feel that influence in how focused and emotionally clear the album is. It doesn’t feel overworked, it feels intentional.
Blake has said she pushed him to trust himself more creatively, and that shows. There’s a confidence here, even in the quieter, more vulnerable moments, that makes the album land.
Overall, Trying Times isn’t about big, dramatic highs. It’s more of a slow burn. But if you give it time, it really sticks with you.
