This Is How Tomorrow Moves

Beabadoobee’s third studio album, This Is How Tomorrow Moves, released on August 9, 2024, marks a pivotal point in the artist’s career. At 24, Beabadoobee, whose real name is Beatrice Kristi Ilejay Laus, delivers what critics are calling her first “adult” album. Moving away from the teenage angst that characterized her previous works, this album showcases her evolution both thematically and musically. The record is a testament to her growth, reflecting a more mature perspective and a refined sound.

The album was announced on May 9, 2024, with the lead single “Take a Bite” released alongside the news. This single, with its upbeat tempo and catchy melodies, set the stage for the album’s exploration of new themes and a fresh sound. Following this, Beabadoobee released “Coming Home” on June 5, 2024, which offered a more introspective glimpse into the album’s direction. The third single, “Ever Seen,” dropped on July 1, 2024, and the final single, “Beaches,” was released on August 7, 2024, just two days before the album’s official release.

This Is How Tomorrow Moves is characterized by its diverse sonic palette and introspective lyrics. The album’s tracklist is an eclectic mix of styles and moods, with standout tracks like “California” and “Real Man” displaying Beabadoobee’s ability to blend indie rock with elements of pop and alternative. The song “Girl Song” stands out with its reflective and emotional depth, while “Post” and “A Cruel Affair” highlight her skill in crafting poignant and relatable lyrics.

The production of the album was handled by the legendary Rick Rubin, alongside Jacob Bugden, who also contributed to engineering and programming. The collaboration brings a polished yet authentic sound to the album, with Rubin’s influence evident in the album’s dynamic range and emotional resonance. The technical team, including Joe LaPorta for mastering and Oli Jacobs for mixing, ensured that each track was finely tuned to highlight Beabadoobee’s vocal performance and the intricate instrumentation.

In terms of personnel, the album features contributions from a diverse group of musicians. Beabadoobee herself provides vocals and guitar work, while Jacob Bugden takes on multiple roles, including vocals, guitar, bass, keyboards, programming, and drums. The album also features contributions from Carla Azar and Abe Rounds on drums and percussion, as well as CJ Camerieri on horns and Benny Bock on keyboards. This collaborative effort brings a rich, layered texture to the album, enhancing its overall depth and complexity.

The visual aspects of the album were crafted by a talented team led by Patricia Villirillo, who provided creative direction. Chris Melian and Samuel Burgess-Johnson worked on the art and design, while Jules Moskovtchenko captured the album’s essence through photography. Their work complements the album’s sonic landscape, creating a cohesive and engaging visual presentation.

This Is How Tomorrow Moves debuted at number 1 on the UK Albums Chart, marking Beabadoobee’s first chart-topping album. This achievement underscores her growing influence and the continued evolution of her musical career. The album’s success reflects not only her artistic development but also her ability to connect with audiences through a blend of introspective lyrics and innovative soundscapes. As Beabadoobee continues to explore new musical territories and themes, This Is How Tomorrow Moves stands as a testament to her growth and enduring impact on the music industry.