5 Ways Ben Howard’s Second Album Changed His Sound

Darker tone I Forget Where We Were traded the folk-driven acoustic sound of Every Kingdom for a noticeably darker atmosphere.

More atmospheric production The album leans into reverb, layered textures, and spacious arrangements instead of the direct, stripped-back approach of his debut.

Less acoustic guitar Howard moved away from fingerpicked acoustic as the primary instrument, favoring electric guitar and ambient soundscapes.

Introspective lyrics The songwriting became more abstract and personal, matching the brooding mood of the music.

A deliberate departure This was not a subtle evolution—it was a clear, intentional shift away from the sound that made him famous.