Perfume Genius – It’s a Mirror

Perfume Genius, the project of Mike Hadreas, offers a glimpse into his forthcoming album Glory with the release of its lead single, “It’s a Mirror.” Produced by long-time collaborator Blake Mills and supported by a full band, the song represents a striking shift toward gothic Americana.

The track opens with dark, twangy undertones and builds into a dense, atmospheric soundscape. The rich instrumentation features contributions from a talented line-up, including Meg Duffy and Jim Keltner. This collaboration, coupled with Mills’ production, gives the song a depth that contrasts with the ambient style of his earlier works, like Ugly Season. Instead, “It’s a Mirror” delves into Americana traditions while offering a critical, queer twist on a genre often associated with rugged individualism and machismo.

The accompanying video, directed by Cody Critcheloe, complements the song’s themes. It features surreal and provocative imagery: Hadreas straddles a Harley, drinks petrol, and dons fetish-inspired biker gear while navigating an imagined space where gender, power, and identity are fluid.

The 11-track album, Glory, is set for release on March 28, 2025.