Frank Ocean drops surprise album Endless ahead of Boys Don't Cry

It’s been four years since his brilliant debut album Channel Orange and the moody, R&B beats in the video deliver the climax to the long awaited release of his album. Shot in black and white, the 45 minute loop of the construction of a staircase is narrated by somber, longing vocals that reflect his inner contemplative thoughts.

The soulful melodies throughout each track are carried along with passionate interludes and if they’re weren’t already featured in the album, the influence of James Blake, Jonny Greenwood and Sampha would have been duly noted. It also included the sounds of violas, violins, cellos and double basses from the London Contemporary Orchestra, conducted by Robert Ames. The concept of this visual album is fairly new, reminiscent of Beyonce’s Lemonade, he transforms his album into something more.

Frank’s never been a typical popstar. So far, he’s kept fans waiting most of his career as he announced this follow up three years ago. The footage from the livestream could be his way of telling fans the album is still under construction. The final teaser for his new album features 18 new tracks in a visual album, which comes across almost like a statement before the performance. It feels like he’s merging the two in an interactive way to keep fans guessing before he releases more music this weekend. Those who might have expected a conventional release will just have to keep waiting till Boys Don’t Cry drops. A representative from Apple Music made a statement that fans should “keep an eye out this weekend for more from Frank.”

He’s doing something different and we like it. All we can do now is stay tuned for more.