Ugly Season is the sixth studio album by American musician Perfume Genius (born Mike Hadreas), released on June 17, 2022, through Matador Records. The album was initially conceived as the score for "The Sun Still Burns Here," a collaborative dance piece created by Hadreas and choreographer Kate Wallich, which premiered in 2019.
Background and Development
The genesis of Ugly Season dates back to 2017 when Perfume Genius began working with Kate Wallich and her dance company, The YC. The collaboration aimed to integrate music and movement seamlessly, with Hadreas composing a sonic landscape that would underscore the themes and physicality of Wallich's choreography. The dance piece, "The Sun Still Burns Here," explored themes of vulnerability, connection, and the human body in various states of being. Following the successful run of the dance, Hadreas refined and expanded the music, preparing it for release as a standalone album. The album features additional contributions from musicians such as Blake Mills and Hand Habits (Meg Duffy).
Musical Style and Themes
Ugly Season marks a notable shift in Perfume Genius's discography, moving towards a more experimental, atmospheric, and often instrumental sound compared to his previous, more pop-structured albums. It incorporates elements of art pop, experimental electronic music, drone, and ambient textures. Many tracks are largely instrumental, with Hadreas's distinctive vocals appearing more sparingly or in fragmented forms.
The album's themes mirror those explored in "The Sun Still Burns Here," delving into bodily sensation, transformation, desire, and the interplay of light and darkness. The compositions often build slowly, creating immersive soundscapes that evoke a sense of unease, beauty, and profound emotional depth. The lack of traditional song structures allows for a more fluid and abstract listening experience, inviting listeners to engage with the music on an instinctual rather than lyrical level.
Critical Reception
Upon its release, Ugly Season received widespread critical acclaim. Reviewers lauded its ambitious scope, inventive sound design, and Perfume Genius's artistic bravery in exploring new sonic territories. Critics particularly praised the album's ability to translate the intensity and emotional complexity of the original dance piece into a compelling auditory experience. It was frequently highlighted for its unique blend of vulnerability and experimentalism, earning it nominations and placements on several year-end best album lists.
Track Listing
- "Just a Room"
- "Herem"
- "Teeth"
- "Pop Song"
- "Sails Song"
- "Eye in the Wall"
- "Photograph"
- "Ugly Season"
- "Stereogum"
- "Cenote"