“The Secret of Us- Deluxe Version”- Gracie Abrams Album Review

Gracie Abrams dropped the deluxe version of her sophomore album “The Secret of Us,” last Friday, Oct. 18th. The deluxe version includes four new songs and three live-recorded versions of other songs in the album.

Abrams, originally from Los Angeles, California, began writing music when she was just eight. She gained widespread fame after performing as an opening act for mega pop stars such as Taylor Swift and Olivia Rodrigo.

Abrams released the original version of “The Secret of Us” in June 2024, which saw a feature from Swift on the track titled “us.”

Abrams’ first track on the album, titled “Cool,” features Abrams boldly sharing the details of a relationship that ended bitterly.

Her increasing crescendo throughout the song conveys her passion and intensity and is perfect for the sheer vulnerability of the lyrics.

Abrams sings “You probably met up with Cass and said the same s**t” as part of the chorus, replacing the name and using a different one each time the chorus hit, implying she was repeatedly cheated on throughout the relationship.

“That’s So True” is the second song added in the deluxe version, a song that immediately stands out for its nearly conversational style.

A fast-paced, upbeat guitar melody plays in the background as Abrams sings about a former partner’s new relationship. The song comes off almost as a warning, as Abrams explains she was left hurt by her former partner with lyrics such as “you’ve got me thinking she’s so cool / But I know what I know, and you’re just another dude.”

Abrams’ third new song is titled “I Told You Things.” The song explores the concept of moving on from a relationship she was very heavily invested in.

With lyrics like “I told you things that I never said / You’re the golden boy and my worst regret / So I cut the cost and I limit feeling,” Abrams conveys how much her former partner meant to her and how it was extremely difficult for her to move forward following its ending.

Abrams is well-known for her ability to convey complex emotions in her lyrics, many of which are related to heartbreak.

However, her fourth and last new song in the deluxe album, titled “Packing It Up,” shows a happier side to Abrams as she sings about an unexpected relationship.

Lyrics such as “I swear that I wasn’t looking for much / But that’s just when you happened” portray her surprise.

However, in a change from previous topics, the relationship was well-received and filled with respect and kindness, shown with lyrics like “And I’d love to complete you / Hope you get all you could ask for.”

Overall, all Gracie Abrams fans will welcome the deluxe album, as the four additional songs add to an already incredible album.

Rating- 7/10

Alex Perez is a third-year majoring in broadcast journalism. To contact him, please email app5877@psu.edu.