This Is What it Feels Like

Released on 12 November 2021, This Is What It Feels Like finds Gracie Abrams expanding the intimate songwriting that first defined her early work into something more fully realised. Framed as a project rather than a debut album, the twelve-track collection captures the emotional turbulence of growing up with a remarkable sense of clarity and restraint.

Abrams has always excelled at turning private thoughts into universal moments, and here she leans further into that strength. Across tracks such as “Feels Like”, “Rockland” and “Camden”, she explores uncertainty, longing and self-reflection with a conversational honesty that never feels forced. The songs unfold like late-night diary entries, delivered with a vulnerability that draws listeners closer rather than pushing them away.

The production balances delicacy with depth. Collaborations with Aaron Dessner, Joel Little and Blake Slatkin provide subtle textures that allow Abrams’ voice to remain at the centre of each song. The arrangements rarely overwhelm, instead creating spacious environments where every lyric and melodic turn can land with maximum impact. Tracks like “Hard to Sleep” and “Augusta” particularly benefit from this approach, building atmosphere without sacrificing intimacy.

What makes This Is What It Feels Like so compelling is its consistency. Whether it’s the understated melancholy of “Older”, the quiet optimism of “Alright”, or the wistful reflections scattered throughout the record, Abrams maintains a clear emotional thread from beginning to end. Even at nearly forty minutes, the project never loses focus.

Rather than chasing grand statements, Abrams succeeds through precision and sincerity. This Is What It Feels Like captures the messy emotions of youth with uncommon grace, confirming her ability to transform personal experiences into songs that feel deeply familiar. It’s a confident and affecting collection that rewards repeated listens.