Perfume Genius, the moniker of Mike Hadreas, has once again captivated listeners with his seventh studio album, Glory. This latest offering is a masterful blend of introspection and sonic innovation, solidifying Hadreas’ position as a fearless explorer of the human condition.
Crafted during the introspective period of the COVID lockdown, Glory delves into themes of anxiety, grief, and disconnection. Tracks like “No Front Teeth” and “It’s a Mirror” lay bare the raw vulnerability and tentative optimism that permeate the album. The former, featuring Aldous Harding, oscillates between restrained elegance and full-band thrash, creating a dynamic listening experience. The latter confronts agoraphobia with a gothic Americana sound, marked by muscular instrumentation and Hadreas’ confident vocals.
Collaborating with producer Blake Mills and longtime partner Alan Wyffels, Hadreas has sculpted a soundscape that is both expansive and intimate. The album’s production introduces unexpected, idiosyncratic twists—buzzing synths interrupt the transcendence of “Left for Tomorrow,” while “Clean Heart” balances twitchy percussion with incandescent keys. These elements coalesce to create a moody, detailed sonic journey that challenges and rewards the listener.
Glory also revisits and reimagines Hadreas’ earlier musical ventures. Echoes of the haunted songcraft from 2022’s Ugly Season are evident, with extended instrumental sections lingering like smoke from a forgotten cigarette. Yet, the album stands firmly on its own, offering a fresh perspective on timeless concerns.
Glory is a testament to Perfume Genius’ unwavering commitment to artistic evolution. It invites listeners to navigate the uneasy coexistence of fear and beauty, suggesting that embracing this duality is integral to a whole and meaningful life. With this album, Hadreas not only confronts his own anxieties but also offers a mirror for others to reflect upon their own, making Glory a resonant and exhilarating addition to his discography.