Flume: When Everything Was New

Flume: When Everything Was New is a documentary film that delves into the life and creative process of Australian DJ and producer Flume. The documentary offers an intimate look behind the scenes of Flume's rise to fame and the making of his critically acclaimed second studio album, Skin. The film begins with Flume, whose real name is Harley Streten, sharing his early days as a music producer and DJ. He explains how he first gained recognition in the music scene with his self-titled debut album in 2012, which was a unique blend of R&B and electronica. Flume's music was a breath of fresh air in the electronic dance music scene, and his innovative style quickly set him apart from other producers. As Flume's popularity grew, so did his collaboration opportunities. He shares stories of working with high-profile artists such as Lorde and Disclosure, creating remixes that catapulted him to global fame. The documentary showcases Flume's meticulous attention to detail and his relentless drive to push the boundaries of his music. The majority of the documentary focuses on Flume's creative process while working on his second studio album, Skin. Released in 2016, Skin was a bold and experimental album that marked a significant departure from Flume's debut release. The album featured collaborations with a diverse range of artists, including Kai, Vic Mensa, and Beck, among others. Through interviews with Flume and his collaborators, the documentary sheds light on the challenges and triumphs of creating an album that was both innovative and commercially successful. Flume discusses his struggles with balancing his artistic vision with the commercial expectations of his record label and the pressures of living up to his previous success. Despite these challenges, Flume persevered and poured his heart and soul into the creation of Skin. The documentary showcases the painstaking process of writing and producing each track, with Flume sharing his inspirations, motivations, and creative decisions. From the atmospheric soundscapes to the infectious beats, every element of the album is explored in depth. Throughout the documentary, Flume's vulnerability and openness are palpable. He discusses his personal struggles, including anxiety and self-doubt, and how they often manifest in his music. His willingness to share his emotional landscape provides a unique glimpse into the mindset of an artist and serves as a testament to his dedication to his craft. The film also explores the themes of creativity and risk-taking in music production. Flume discusses the importance of experimentation and taking calculated risks in the creative process, citing his collaborations with Kai and Kai's debut album, Island in the Sun as a prime example of this approach. He also delves into the role of technology in shaping his sound, exploring the ways in which software and hardware have influenced his music production techniques. One of the most striking aspects of the documentary is its visual aesthetic. The cinematography is stunning, capturing Flume's performances and creative process in intimate and vibrant detail. The film's color palette is similarly striking, with a predominantly cool color scheme that complements Flume's atmospheric soundscapes. Flume: When Everything Was New is a must-see for fans of electronic dance music and Flume's unique style. The documentary offers a captivating glimpse into the creative process of one of the most innovative producers in the scene, showcasing the triumphs and tribulations of making a critically acclaimed album. Through its insightful interviews, stunning visuals, and nuanced exploration of creativity and risk-taking, the documentary provides a comprehensive understanding of Flume's artistic vision and the forces that shape it.