Los Angeles, California — Kesha Sebert has unveiled her sixth studio album, titled “Period,” describing it as a significant milestone in her career. The singer, known for her vivacious persona and exuberant performances, expresses a newfound sense of liberation in this work, which is complemented by a world tour. A promotional image of Kesha riding a jetski, unabashedly topless, encapsulates her quest for freedom and self-empowerment.
Fans familiar with Kesha’s ups and downs might draw parallels between this release and her previous album, “Rainbow.” In 2017, she characterized that album as “truly saving my life” amidst a turbulent legal struggle against her former producer, Lukasz Gottwald, also known as “Dr.” Luke, whom she accused of sexual assault, a claim he has denied. Following a long series of lawsuits, Kesha finally reached a settlement with Gottwald in 2023, allowing her to release “Period” independently under her own label.
With “Period,” Kesha shifts the narrative from trauma to triumph, moving away from the reflective lyrics of “Rainbow” toward more upbeat themes reminiscent of her earlier music. Tracks like “take me to the sex shop” and “gimme gimme gimme all the boys” showcase her unapologetic return to the carefree spirit that first endeared her to fans in the early 2010s. Yet, one poignant moment remains, with the closing ballad “Cathedral” offering a glimpse into her past struggles, effectively balancing the album’s exuberance and her journey of resilience.
The timing of Kesha’s return is particularly noteworthy as the pop landscape evolves. Once an outlier with her party-centric persona, her music resonates in today’s environment where raw, emotional authenticity is celebrated. Despite emerging amid a wave of artists like Charli XCX, Kesha remains a trailblazer who helped pave the way for contemporary pop sensibilities. Tracks like “Yippee-Ki-Yay,” which leans into country influences, reflect her versatile approach to music while avoiding the pitfalls of following fleeting trends.
The album showcases an impressive range of styles, from synth-heavy pop-rock to mid-tempo disco beats, evident in songs like “Delusional” and “Love Forever.” Kesha collaborates with various artists and producers, capturing the essence of her artistic revival. The dizzying energy of “Boy Crazy” and the avant-garde flair of “Glow,” produced by Hudson Mohawke, further highlight her commitment to exploring diverse sounds while reclaiming her distinctive voice in pop.
Despite the catchy lyrics and infectious beats throughout “Period,” Kesha maintains an authentic presence. Lines like “You’re on TikTok / I’m the f—king OG” reflect both her playful nature and her status as a pioneer in the industry. The combination of her vibrant personality and engaging lyrics keeps the listener captivated throughout the album, ensuring it resonates with both existing fans and newcomers alike.
In the grand scheme of her career, “Period” solidifies Kesha’s position as an enduring figure in pop music. The album signifies a rebirth, allowing her to reconnect with the exuberant persona that initially captivated audiences while also acknowledging the adversity she has overcome. Kesha is poised to reclaim her place at the forefront of the music scene, reminding listeners that her evolution is an integral part of her artistry.