Brittney Denise Parks, popularly known by her stage name, Sudan Archives, released her new album, The BPM, on October 17. The album comes after Sudan's breakout album, Natural Brown Prom Queen (2022). Pitchfork reports that BPM is a stark contrast from her previously released albums, in which Sudan portrays her "grittiest" self.
In a conversation with the NY Times, the singer revealed that the album is a breakthrough from others, focusing on "self-discovery." Describing it as "disruptive", Sudan added how the songs progress on the album. She says that in the initial songs,
"“goes through all of these heartbreaks and the pain of life, to where she wants to give up."
It is in the latter half of the album, Sudan Archives describes a transformation into an "enhanced version of herself." She took to her Instagram to announce the album and wrote,
"Making this album changed everything. I can’t wait to share every piece with you. It all started with a loop…."
The singer has also announced tour dates for Europe/UK and North America in support of her latest album.
Note: This article reflects the writer’s opinion. Do comment with your suggestions to let us know which other items deserve to make the list.
Every track ranked from best to worst on Sudan Archives' The BPM
We are taking a look at Sudan Archives' newest album and ranking the tracks from best to worst:
Los Cinci & Noire
Los Cinci & Noire appear among the top contenders, perhaps because of the distinct theme and appeal. The tracks reveal Sudan's adaptability to different themes and genres. On Los Cinci, she sings,
"Sometimes I can get real low but I am high right now.”
A Computer Love
In a conversation with the New York Times, Sudan Archives revealed that the latter half of the album channels her alter ego, the Gadget Girl. A Computer Love reveals the transition and has a futuristic appeal.
Dead
As the opening track of the album, Dead glides through electro beats. Following the chorus, the track features an invigorating violin section, which adds to the charm.
Yea Yea Yea & My Type
Previously released in July, the track gave a glimpse of the potential of the record. While Yea Yea Yea has a more sensual theme, My Type is fast-paced and oozes confidence.
Touch Me
One of the shortest tracks on the album, Touch Me, uses "percussive elements". The track appears in the second half of the album and can be a respite from the fast-tracked, electro momentum.
Come and Find You
Come and Find You opens with a fun and upbeat tone. Even with bright music, Sudan Archives sings about vulnerable aspects of her life. As beatsperminute describes, the track is inspired by "neo-soul" music.
A Bug’s Life & The Nature of Power
Sudan Archives takes listeners to the club and asks them to put on dancing shoes. The tracks have a similar tempo and pace to My Type. The Nature of Power further commits to the club influence.
She’s Got Pain
It can be easy to miss the vulnerability in She's Got Pain, with the tempo and upbeat music playing in the background. Pitchfork notes that the "Irish jig" in the middle of the track adds a refreshing touch.
Heaven Knows
The album closes with Heaven Knows, which has jazz developments, and shows a clear development from the opening track.
The BPM & Ms. Pac Man
By the latter half of the album, even though the tracks have a unique theme, it does become somewhat monotonous. Unfortunately, the BPM track fails to hit the mark.
David & Goliath
In David & Goliath, Sudan appears to indicate an unrequited love and sings,
"I found a way to travel to you / Even when we’re not in sync / I’m going to find my way back to you."
While the track features a meaningful theme, it doesn't add much to the record.
Which is your favorite track on Sudan Archives newest album? Tell us in the comments below.