Ethel Cain Releases Challenging New Album Perverts

Ethel Cain's new EP 'Perverts' marks a stark departure from her acclaimed debut 'Preacher's Daughter', embracing unsettling industrial noise and atmospheric soundscapes over conventional melodies. Clocking in at 90 minutes, the project features nine tracks that prioritize abstract sonic experiences, creating an immersive, horror-like ambiance rather than straightforward songs. Critics note that while 'Perverts' intensifies the darker themes of her earlier work, it rejects mainstream expectations, challenging listeners to engage deeply with the music. Tracks like 'Vacillator' and 'Amber Waves' are seen as the most accessible, yet still contain a haunting quality that diverges from her prior pop-influenced style. Anhedönia's exploration of personal and philosophical themes within the EP showcases her artistic ambition to defy categorization and push beyond the limits of her previous success. Overall, 'Perverts' is described as a transformative listening experience that may alienate some fans but rewards those willing to delve into its complexities.