Ariana Grande's latest album, "Petal," offers a defiant yet bruised perspective on her life in the public eye. The eight-studio album, released recently, is described by the singer as an 'experimental' work born from 'unfiltered rage,' according to a review in the Daily Mail.
Grande, 33, has spoken about feeling exhausted by the 'endless, ongoing' scrutiny and concerns over her physique. This sentiment spills into "Petal," as she plans to take a break after her current world tour concludes in London next month. The album's themes explore her complex relationship with fame and the pressures faced by women in the spotlight.
On tracks like 'Kiss Me,' Grande's vocal performance, backed by harmonies and electronic beats, conveys a sense of purpose that was less evident on her previous album, "Eternal Sunshine." The song "Hate That I Made You Love Me" delves into the intense relationship between artists and their fans, with lyrics like, 'Something inside is dancing with fire.' The title track, "Petal," asserts, 'This is not a cry for help,' and defiantly states, 'I don't need someone to save me, 'cause this music and I will never die.'
While Grande has described the album as 'experimental' and stemming from 'unfiltered rage,' Swedish super-producers Ilya Salmanzadeh and Max Martin have incorporated heavy basslines and distorted electronics. However, Grande's vocal delivery often maintains a sweetness, offering familiar pop elements alongside the grittier themes. The album also features lighter moments, including the love song 'Stay' and 'Big Feelings' with its gentle innuendo. On 'Oh Well,' she addresses past relationships with blunt lyrics about moving beyond dysfunction.
Despite the raw emotion, the album has been noted for Grande not always fully utilizing her vocal range. The review suggests that for a singer of her caliber, she sometimes holds back. Nonetheless, the album concludes strongly with "Never Get Over Me," a track steeped in '90s R&B influences, and "Bad Thing (Bunny Hop)," a synth-pop anthem reflecting on a past relationship.
"Petal" is seen as an improvement over "Eternal Sunshine," which was met with a less enthusiastic reception, prompting multiple re-releases with additional material. Grande is scheduled to begin a residency at The O2 in London on August 15.