Overview

• The album arrived on Aug. 29 following a June dispute over the original artwork, after which Carpenter posted an alternative cover she called “approved by God” on Instagram.
• Critics describe strong 1970s disco cues with ABBA and Bee Gees echoes alongside country touches and 80s/90s pop textures.
• The record reunites Carpenter with key collaborators Jack Antonoff, John Ryan and songwriter Amy Allen.
• “Manchild” is widely cited as a standout, delivering a synth‑pop earworm built on witty double entendres.
• New coverage highlights a provocative “Tears” video and a CBS Mornings teaser in which Carpenter said the album is not for the perpetually outraged.