Tricky (UK)

Ever since his groundbreaking 1995 debut “Maxinquaye,” Tricky has been synonymous with a distinctive sound. With “Different When It’s Silent,” the Bristol-based musician released his 15th studio album in July 2026—his first under his own name in six years.&  

The new album blends dark soundscapes with blues, rock, electronic music, and melancholy. The opener “Still See Me There” deliberately references a line from the 1996 song “Makes Me Wanna Die.” For the first time on a Tricky album, male vocals dominate, led by those of the young Bristol native Mitch Sanders. His voice shapes the guitar-driven “I’m Yours” as well as the electronically pulsating “Because I Don’t Know.” On “Marinade,” a reinterpretation of Dope Lemon, violin and cello can be heard, while “Piano” incorporates an operatic voice and “So Cold” plays with drum ’n’ bass influences. Amid raw textures and catchy melodies, Tricky’s music remains consistently unique. 

“Different When It’s Silent” also marks a personal turning point. Following the death of his daughter in 2019, Tricky focused more on projects such as Lonely Guest, Theis Thaws, and the collaborative album with Marta Złakowska. His manager, Alan McGee, eventually convinced him to release the new songs under his own name again. The closing duet “Out of Place” with Marta is dedicated to his daughter. Today, Tricky is once again looking forward to new music and concerts.