Released on Jan. 17, 2020 by Capitol Records, Manic is the third studio album of American singer Ashley Nicolette Frangipane or better known as “Halsey.” Following Badlands (2015) and Hopeless Fountain Kingdom (2017) albums, “Manic” is the first ever album in 2020 to receive a certified platinum award.

“Manic” consists of 16 tracks which reflects Halsey’s personal experiences, angst, and growth; making listeners have their own introspections and self-discoveries of life. Also, some are interlude collaborations with BTS’ Suga, Alanis Morissette, and Dominic Fike.

Each song is a masterpiece as its lyrics don’t only provide eargasm, but also a heartfelt experience.

Another breakthrough

At age 17, Halsey was diagnosed with a bipolar disorder. With the mania she had personally encountered, she was able to fight her inner battles through acceptance, self-love and growth. It is clearly depicted on the album’s first track, “Ashley,” as posted on its YouTube’s Lyric Video.

With the lyrics of “929,” Halsey’s birthday, “I’ve got a long way to go until self preservation… And I’m still looking for my salvation,” this proves that anyone can feel lost and the only person who can help is you.

Moreover, “I HATE EVERYBODY,” “clementine,” and “More” reflect a love-hate relationship with oneself upon dealing with other people. These seem like melodies hidden in metaphors; as lyrics speak to your soul amidst those negative vibes screaming inside of you.

Supplementary recommendations

Aside from “Without Me,” “You should be sad” and “Graveyard” singles which were released earlier from the said album, these tracks below speak volumes depending on your mood tune.

• “killing boys” – As the intro was interpolated by Amanda Seyfried and Meghan Fox in the 2009 horror film Jennifer’s Body, the song is dedicated to someone who’s frustrated to men, recently had a breakup, or any strong and independent woman out there.

• “Finally // beautiful stranger” – With its complementary instrumentals to the lyrics, its music video is ethereal. It is not simply about Halsey meeting someone so genuine; but rather being a “stranger” of her life, amidst the industry’s spotlight and the need to stay strong as an ordinary person behind-the-curtains of fame.

• “3am” – Can’t sleep? As you sober through the “devil’s hour,” through whispers of self-doubts and insecurities, these upbeat song’s lines will surely hit you: “I’m the worst of my enemies and I don’t really know what to do with me.”

• “Forever…(is a long time)” – This is like a lullaby to the ears with its soft tone produced by the piano. Play this music if you want to calm yourself as well as radiate small steps of positivity in life.

• “Still Learning” – Everyone feels vulnerable sometimes. “I’m still learning to love myself.” This track lets you exude self-esteem and learn from those past mistakes.

Ultimately, Halsey never fails to share well-written and relatable songs as she also gives a slice of her life behind every lyric. Keep playing Manic on repeat for a mood booster—especially if you’re being tested beneath the waters of life; while striving not to drown from those dreadful thoughts and emotions.