James Blake Debuts Independent Album "Trying Times" and Performs at UC Berkeley Greek Theatre
On a breezy June night, James Blake returned to the stage at the William Randolph Hearst Greek Theatre in Berkeley, California, to launch his seventh studio album, "Trying Times." The concert, held on 11 June 2026, was part of a tour that has already drawn acclaim from audiences and critics alike.
"Trying Times" was released on 13 March 2026 through Good Boy Records, marking Blake’s first full‑length project after parting ways with Polydor. The album is also his first independent release, a milestone that reflects a broader shift in his career toward artistic autonomy. The Greek Theatre—an 8,500‑seat open‑air venue owned by the University of California, Berkeley—has a long history of hosting diverse acts, from jazz festivals to pop concerts, and has become a frequent stop on Blake’s tour.
The record features guest spots from Dave and Monica Martin and was executive‑produced by Blake’s partner, Jameela Jamil. Prior to the album’s launch, Blake dropped two singles—"Death of Love" on 22 January 2026 and "I Had a Dream She Took My Hand" on 12 February 2026—followed by the promotional single "Doesn't Just Happen" on Spotify on 12 March 2026. Chart data shows the first single peaked at number 26 on the New Zealand Hot Singles chart, while the promotional track reached number 9 on the same chart and number 66 on the UK Singles Chart. "Trying Times" debuted at number 3 on the UK Albums Chart, the highest charting debut in Blake’s career to date.
In a pre‑tour interview with KALW’s music director Tshego Letsoalo, Blake explained the album’s artistic direction. He said the record represents a move away from the experimental electronic textures that defined his earlier work toward a more vocal‑centric approach. "It feels outward‑looking," he noted, adding that he has grown more confident in expressing personal themes. Blake also highlighted his collaboration with producer Dominic Maker, whose musical cues often spark his songwriting. He described the piano as a frequent starting point for tracks, sometimes altered to create contemporary sounds.
The album’s completion was guided by a focus on "vibration," a principle Blake used to avoid filler and maintain high emotional energy. He described the record as "lean and not indulgent," emphasizing a deliberate curation of material to a high standard of intentionality.
During the Berkeley show, Blake performed several tracks from the album in ways that mirrored the studio versions while adapting others to the live setting. Songs such as "Doesn't Just Happen," "Days Go By," and the title track were delivered with a power that matched their recorded counterparts. Blake noted that the live show included moments he had not previously designed for, creating a theatrical experience he feels is a true extension of the album’s intent.
The Greek Theatre’s open‑air design and acoustic qualities provided an ideal backdrop for Blake’s blend of electronic and acoustic elements. The venue’s history of hosting diverse acts aligns with Blake’s genre‑spanning approach, allowing him to showcase the album’s range from intimate ballads to expansive sonic landscapes.
"Trying Times" represents a significant milestone in Blake’s career. By embracing independent production, focusing on vocal and lyrical content, and delivering a cohesive live presentation, the album and its accompanying tour reinforce his relevance in contemporary music. The chart success and positive reception of his performances underscore the impact of this new chapter.
