My journey into the world of Sudan Archives began with her track “Nont for Sale” from the 2018 EP Sink. Since then, I’ve been an unwavering fan. With each new album, she reinvents the sound of her violin, challenging conventional expectations with every note.

In her album Athena, the violin’s natural tones are preserved, moving fluidly from experimental pop to ambient soundscapes. Her subsequent work, Natural Brown Prom Queen, dove into the realm of sound collage, merging samples and modern R&B with electronic influences. Her latest project, The BPM, retains distinctive violin segments but fully embraces the technological aspects of her evolving sound.

The album kicks off with “Dead,” starting with gentle orchestral movements and a distinct yet modified violin. At the 1:30 mark, the beat drops, featuring high-pitched vocal samples and an oscillating synth bass that transforms the track into a dance anthem. This piece acts as a manifesto of sorts, with multiple segments showcasing the diverse facets of Archives’ music as she inquires, “Where my old self at? Where my new self at?” and answers with a confident “right here, right here.”

The album offers an eclectic dance music journey, from the funky four-on-the-floor beat of “My Type” to the trap-infused, playful rap of “Ms. Pac Man.” It even includes an Irish jig within “She Got Pain.” Throughout the album, listeners encounter autotune, drum ’n’ bass rhythms, house piano riffs, techno synths, and, naturally, her signature violin. Each track defies traditional pop structure, dynamically shifting between styles.

As anticipated, the tempo of The BPM is generally more energetic than her earlier works. However, it’s not solely a collection of club tracks. “Come and Find You” nods to the R&B vibes of the late ’80s and early ’90s, reminiscent of artists like Sade. The lyrics frequently delve into themes of love and connection, as heard in “David & Goliath,” where she sings, “I found a way to travel to you even when we’re not in sync, I’m gonna find my way back to you, Even when it’s really hard I like the push and pull.”

The BPM is a rich, vibrant record, celebrated for its unpredictable nature and sonic complexity. It’s my top pick for 2025, having claimed the most plays in my Apple Music Recap despite its October release. You can enjoy Sudan Archives’ The BPM on Bandcamp and all major streaming platforms, including Qobuz, Tidal, Apple Music, Deezer, YouTube Music, and Spotify.