Everything Is Recorded – Temporary

That is what I would call 'collaboration' in its purest form—Temporary by Everything Is Recorded is a fascinating meeting of creative minds, bringing together an array of voices within a single album. Richard Russell, the head of XL Recordings, uses this project to explore themes of grief and loss, crafting a record that resonates with the introspective and subdued nature of many post-pandemic releases.

At its core, Temporary is built on deeply personal and intimate conversations. Some of these discussions even make their way directly into the tracklist, creating a very fragile and interpersonal atmosphere. But rather than wallowing in despair, the album tells a story of resilience—of finding ways to navigate hardships and searching for the light at the end of the tunnel.

And what better coping mechanism than music? This record serves as both a creative outlet for Russell and his guests and an immersive, almost voyeuristic listening experience. It carries the vibe of an impromptu jam session among close friends—where some are singing, others are reciting words, and a few are simply playing instruments. They are not always in the same room and may sometimes feel slightly out of sync. At times, the album loses focus with its shifting dynamics. Yet, this unfiltered approach gives Temporary its charm, making it feel as if you’re wandering through a room full of conversations, catching snippets of raw emotion and artistic expression. And there are some notable guests to listen to—Sampha, Bill Callahan, Noah Cyrus, Florence Welch, Maddy Prior, Kamasi Washington, and many others.

Standout tracks include The Meadows, Firelight, and My And Me. Despite its fragmented structure, the album ultimately makes sense. It may stumble, and it might not fully reveal itself to an unprepared listener, but it leaves a unique impression—one that differs for everyone who hears it.

6.8/10