Katy Perry released her seventh studio album, “143,” on Sept. 20, 2024. The album consists of 11 tracks that combine Perry’s old, nostalgic music style with a new, modern approach. “143” album focuses on love and empowerment, with spirited lyrics, refreshing beats and unexpected collaborations.
The first two tracks on the album are underwhelming, but the third track, “GORGEOUS” featuring Kim Petras, is the first song on the album that takes the listener on a time machine back to Perry’s music prime. Perry utilizes robotic sound effects, her nostalgic voice and upbeat lyrics to sing about women uplifting their friends and giving each other a confidence boost. The addition of Petras’ voice gives the song an amusing twist with fun lyrics and interesting vocals.
“All my girls look gorgeous / We comin’ out tonight,” Perry sings.
“CRUSH” is the catchiest song of the album, radiating the same energy as Charli xcx’s album “BRAT.” The song is introduced with a lively, quick tempo accompanied by different instrumentals in the background, immediately putting the listener into a club-like atmosphere. The lyrics are lighthearted and bold, describing a childish crush.
“Is it a crush? Makin’ me blush / Here I go again, I’m falling in love / Catching my breath whenever we touch / Here I go again, I’m falling in love,” Perry sings.
“ALL THE LOVE,” the seventh track on the album, is another great beat that is uplifting and fun to listen to. Not only is the overall tempo quick-paced and mood-boosting, but the lyrics are empowering and positive. The song is about getting over a heartbreak and moving forward while finding happiness past a romantic relationship.
“All the love that I ever lost (Came back to me) / All the love that I ever lost (Came back to me) / I was frozen, I was hopeless / Now there’s poetry in every moment / All the love that I ever lost (Came back to me),” Perry sings.
“ARTIFICIAL” featuring JID is the most contrasting song to the rest of the album and arguably the best collaboration as well. This track is much edgier than her other songs as the vibe is ominous and angry rather than uplifting. Perry’s parts of the song are great on their own, but the addition of JID contrasts perfectly with Perry’s voice to create an exciting, catchy track.
“Am I trapped in a maze? Are we lost in the matrix? / Animalistic instinct, it’s all nature / Behind enemy lines of animation / Scribbled upon a page, we’re stuck in a simulation,” JID sings.
Overall, Perry’s new album, although somewhat repetitive, has many tracks that are surprisingly great. The use of collaborations, uplifting lyrics and a fresh approach to modern music make “143” an enjoyable listen and worth a try for listeners who enjoy hyperpop and out-of-the-box tracks.