Little Dragon
New Me Same Us

Listening to “New Me, Same Us” in its vinyl version was an emotional and sonic journey that confirms, once again, the extraordinary talent of Little Dragon, a Swedish band formed in Gothenburg in 1996. This sixth studio album, released on March 27, 2020, represents an intimate and personal reflection on growth and transformation, central themes both in the lyrics and in the musical atmosphere.
With “New Me, Same Us,” Little Dragon have been able to combine introspection and lightness, offering a work that skillfully blends electronic, R&B, soul, and synth-pop influences. The entire project was self-produced by the band, recorded in their Gothenburg studio, and exudes authenticity in every track.
The title itself evokes a fascinating dualism: on one hand, personal transformation (the “new me”), on the other, the continuity of what defines our essence (the “same us”). This balance between renewal and fidelity to one’s roots is perceptible both in the lyrics and in the musical arrangements.
Each track is a little world unto itself, but some stand out for their narrative and musical strength:
• “Hold On”: With an irresistible funky groove, it explores the need to let go of the past to embrace the future.
• “Rush”: Vibrant and engaging, it combines R&B influences with pulsating rhythms.
• “Another Lover”: A mix of melancholy and rhythm, it tackles themes of love and loss with great delicacy.
• “Are You Feeling Sad?” (featuring Kali Uchis): The collaboration enriches the album with a warm and carefree dimension, ideal for contrast with the more introspective tracks.
The album reflects Little Dragon's ability to reinvent themselves without betraying their distinctive style. Yukimi Nagano, with her warm and magnetic voice, remains the beating heart of the project, while the arrangements by Erik Bodin (drums), Fredrik Wallin (bass and keyboards), and Håkan Wirenstrand (keyboards) create an ethereal and layered sound that invites both dancing and reflection.
Visual is also a central element in the album experience. The cover, created by David Uzochukwu, perfectly embodies the dreamy and transformative aesthetics of the music. The intense colors and abstract shapes evoke the theme of change, making the album a complete work of art that combines music and visual.

Listening to “New Me, Same Us” on vinyl, the experience becomes even more intimate and enveloping, thanks to the sound quality of the format and its tactile value. This album proves that Little Dragon are a staple in the electronic music scene, capable of renewing themselves while staying true to their artistic identity.
With their unique sound and emotional narratives, Little Dragon continue to be an inexhaustible source of inspiration, delivering music that touches the heart and mind. “New Me, Same Us” is, without a doubt, an album to listen to, relisten to, and cherish as a precious musical journey.