Music artist Halsey recently came out with her fourth studio album called If I Can’t Have Love, I Want Power exemplifying a captivating scope of grunge-pop blended with a sonic soundscape. The album is an entity in itself that bases its strength on its exclusive sound. Comprising compelling arpeggios on the piano undulating across a verse of different sagas, the record is a cascading river flowing into the streams of conscious and melodic depths. She explores the layers of birth and sexuality taking the audience into an immersive experience that has rarely been seen in the collective scope of modern music.
The fourth studio album by Halsey came out on August 27 through Capitol Records. Produced by Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross of the iconic industrial rock group, Nine Inch Nails, the concept album is a saga in itself that extracts the labyrinth associated with childbirth and the horrors of its all. The cover art also exemplifies a thematic significance inspired by the creative and historical depictions of Mary. What sets this album apart as a musical extraordinaire is the theatrical film by the same that also features alongside the music. The film is directed by Colin Tilley and released as a special screening in IMAX prior to the release of the album.
The idea for the album was conceived following Halsey’s canceled third concert tour in 2020 due to the pandemic. Around that time, she also conceived which she describes as one of the most horrifying times of her life. Initially, she hinted the album to comprise a punk rock sound. The concept album marks an important era in the industry depicting viable changes towards a creative resurgence. Conveying her emotions and journey through the album, she connects with the audience instantly. What I personally loved was the thematic dichotomy between the Whore and Madonna. So, sexuality and motherhood are weighed side by side with the conclusion that they can exist as separate entities of one’s personality. The album and its songs can be described as the artist’s own revelation through life and motherhood.
She establishes the album as her own voice and makes sure not to feature any other artist. The sound is inspired by grunge-pop and alternative strains with serious industrial rock influences. The riffs and distortions come and go and retain their essence throughout the album as if writing a story culminating into a climax. A total of 13 songs and a bonus track reflect and contradict existing notions and embark upon a realistic journey of a woman’s plight. When sexuality is defined with motherhood by its side, the fine line is tricky. But Halsey emerges, stronger than ever before singing her glory with songs like ‘The Tradition’, ‘Bells in Santa Fe’, ‘Easier than Lying’, and ‘Girl Is a Gun’ among others. Get your copies now to experience music and themes in one of the most beautiful, resilient, and relatable sagas of the modern age.
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Alicia Parker is a fashion enthusiast studying at the University of California. She contributes to Daily Music Roll as a music blogger and writes a review of various music on a daily basis
