Actress Opens Another Door With Radical Frame

Release Radar · Album · Out September 18, 2026

There is room in our listening life for a beautiful chorus. There is also room for a record that moves the furniture around while we are still sitting on it. Actress has our attention for that second possibility.

The new arrival

Radical Frame, the new album from Darren Cunningham, arrived September 18 through Ninja Tune. The label’s announcement places it within his continuing exploration of the Black British avant-garde, 18 years after his debut Hazyville. Guests include CASISDEAD and Rainy Miller; CASISDEAD appears on “Live By You.” The eight-track sequence also includes “The Experiment,” “Overchord” and “Paris.”

Ninja Tune describes a process of sketches, dismantling and rebuilding. That is useful context for approaching the release: not a promise of an easy soundtrack, but an invitation to give the details some space.

Why it belongs on our radar

Electronic music gets reduced to function far too often. Is it for dancing? Working? Looking mysterious near a speaker? We would rather leave the possibilities open. An artist willing to push at the edges of a familiar form gives us something to be curious about, and curiosity is a very good reason to press play.

This is our release notice, not a claim that we have already unpacked every corner of the album. If your listening habits could use a detour, begin with the official album page, which collects the music, formats and the “Overchord” video directed by Anna van der Velde. Bring decent headphones and a little patience. No examination at the end.

Explore Radical Frame through Ninja Tune. Watch for a fuller Bubbling Box review after we have spent more time with the project.

Image: official Actress / Ninja Tune album artwork; design by rybskie.

Written by Chetuno