Korean-American artist Audrey Nuna, known for her genre-defying sound and eclectic style, has just released her highly-anticipated second studio album, TRENCH, through Arista Records. Audrey continues to push boundaries, using her latest work as an introspective journey that mixes vulnerability with strength, all while further establishing her unique presence in the music industry.
To coincide with the album drop, Audrey made her debut on the highly coveted NPR Music Tiny Desk platform. Her performance featured tracks from TRENCH, alongside some of her previous work, offering fans an intimate look into the creative and emotional depth of her music.
TRENCH: A Dual-Personality Album
TRENCH is more than just an album; it’s a complete evolution of Audrey Nuna’s artistry. Her debut album, a liquid breakfast, was met with critical acclaim, but TRENCH takes her work to an entirely new level, showcasing a duality that reflects her growth both as a person and an artist. The album is divided into two distinct parts—SOFT SKIN and HARD FEELINGS—illustrating the contrasting emotional landscapes that Audrey navigates throughout her songs.
On TRENCH, Audrey Nuna steps into the role of a bionic hero, balancing toughness and vulnerability. This theme is a recurring motif across the project, highlighted by songs like “Starving” featuring Teezo Touchdown, “Jokes On Me,” and “Suckin Up.” These tracks blend bold beats with introspective lyrics, giving fans a glimpse into Audrey’s personal evolution.
Audrey describes this album as a “quantum leap” in her career, signaling her maturity and willingness to confront deeper, more complex emotions while still maintaining her unapologetically raw style. This approach not only sets the tone for TRENCH but also positions Audrey as a dynamic figure in the ever-evolving music landscape.
Tiny Desk Debut
One of the biggest moments coinciding with the album release was Audrey Nuna’s debut on NPR’s Tiny Desk. This platform has long been known for giving artists a chance to strip down their music and showcase it in its most authentic form. Audrey’s setlist included “Damn Right,” “Time,” “Baby Blues,” “Suckin Up,” and “Baby OG,” all of which captured the raw essence of her artistic persona.
The Tiny Desk performance not only offered fans a glimpse into the versatility of Audrey’s sound but also gave her the space to exhibit her live performance abilities. It was a testament to her prowess as both a singer and performer, seamlessly transitioning between the emotional highs and lows of her music.
Focus Track: “Baby OG”
A standout track from TRENCH is “Baby OG,” an icy trap-infused anthem that showcases Audrey’s versatility. The song features heavy electronic bass and layered vocal tracks, creating an immersive experience for the listener. The track marks a pivotal moment in Audrey’s journey as she samples an unreleased track from 2019, blending the past with her present to reflect on how she’s grown.
Audrey describes the song as a reflection of her internal journey: “This song captures inner strength while admitting the vulnerability of not knowing what’s going on. By sampling the original song, it felt like my older self got to have a conversation with my younger, more innocent self. So much has changed, but I still feel that underdog mentality.”
The accompanying music video adds a visual narrative to this theme of duality. In the video, Audrey portrays two distinct characters: one is a glamorous, confident woman navigating a colorful city, while the other is a vulnerable, introspective individual trapped in a black-and-white world. These personas are connected by Audrey’s long black hair, symbolizing the merging of strength and vulnerability that defines much of the album.
TRENCH: A New Sonic Chapter
Audrey Nuna’s TRENCH is a blend of sonic experimentation and emotional introspection. The album features several singles that have already gained traction, such as “Starving,” “Suckin Up,” and “Jokes On Me,” setting the tone for her evolving sound. In addition to these tracks, Audrey offers listeners the unexpected with a new take on Brandy and Monica’s classic “The Boy Is Mine.” Her version, titled “Mine,” reimagines the beloved track with modern flair, blending orchestral elements with an electronic twist.
Last week, Audrey premiered a stripped-back live performance of “Mine,” offering a fresh perspective on the track. The live rendition provides a distinct contrast to the studio version, highlighting her ability to refine complex soundscapes into something more intimate while maintaining the song’s emotional impact.
Audrey Nuna’s Impact on the Industry
With TRENCH, Audrey Nuna cements her status as an artist unafraid to take risks. Her ability to seamlessly blend genres, tackle complex emotional themes, and deliver polished visuals all contribute to her rising influence in the industry. This album marks a turning point in her career, as it showcases not only her artistic growth but also her confidence in fully embracing her dualities.
Audrey’s innovative approach to music, combined with her ability to create visuals that complement her sound, ensures that she continues to be a standout figure. TRENCH serves as both a testament to her past experiences and a bold statement about where she’s headed next.
