On November 9, 2021, Mitski announced the release of her new album in early 2022. After four singles drops and a sold out tour, Laurel Hell was released on February 4, 2022. As a Mitski fan that emerged out of quarantine, I was extremely excited for this new release. With each of her five previous albums, she never failed to disappoint and in number six she delivers a perfect medley of nostalgic 80’s tunes and heartbreaking ballads. Mitski is an artist unlike any other, maintaining her genuinity throughout her decade long career.

Laurel Hell opens with “Valentine, Texas”, a melody dedicated to a small desert she passed while on tour. “Working for the Knife” was her first single release after a two year break, and describes the pressure she feels to release new music despite leaving the industry. Despite all her sacrifices and work, she has never done enough for the metaphorical knife; the music industry, her mental health, and aging. “Stay Soft” depicts hardening your emotions to survive in a relationship with a disco music styling, a common way of mixing dark lyrics with upbeat rhythm. The next series of songs explores Mitski’s experiences through her rise to fame, unhealthy relationships, and mental health struggles. “There’s Nothing Left for You” carries a similar theme, the idea of a well that has run dry; she has given up so much of herself for everyone else that there is nothing left to offer. She ends her album with “That’s Our Lamp”, appreciating this breakup and coming to realize that the end of an era brings her new perspective.

In the end, Mitski has touched the hearts of many with her music, and inspired many with her brilliant lyrics. Her relationships and music career may be complex, but her songs are definitely great!