When Halsey revealed her forthcoming album was produced by none other than Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross, it was immediately clear that she’d had more than enough of not being recognized by music snobs.
If you didn’t catch it, last year’s Manic was, in actuality, among the year’s very best pop records, expressive and bracingly personal.
Well, if her latest album’s title and artwork are any indication, she’s set to double down on that openhearted intimacy. If I Can’t Have Love, I Want Power is due out August 27 through Capitol, and that’s its truly incredible artwork above.
Speaking on the artwork and album alike, Halsey shares, “This album is a concept album about the joys and horrors of pregnancy and childbirth. It was very important to me that the cover art conveyed the sentiment of my journey over the past few months. … The idea that me as a sexual being and my body as a vessel and gift to my child are two concepts that can co-exist peacefully and powerfully. My body has belonged to the world in many different ways the past few years, and this image is my means of reclaiming my autonomy and establishing my pride and strength as a life force for my human being.” Find her full statement below, via her Instagram.
Personally, I’ve long believed Halsey has a masterpiece in her: this may well be it.
