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Around the world in music, tv, books and more - By Naman Arora
The wait is over for Billie Eilish fans as the global pop phenomenon has unveiled her highly-anticipated third studio album, Hit Me Hard and Soft set for release next month.
Described as her most daring work yet, the album promises a sonic exploration that defies categorisation, once it hits digital streaming services and shelves.
Billie, known for her signature dark pop sound, has hinted that Hit Me Hard and Soft pushes her creative boundaries.
In an interview, she stated, “This album feels different. It’s a journey through all the sides of me, the vulnerability and the rage, the quiet moments and the scream-it-out-loud anthems.”
While details about the tracklist remain under wraps since she has opted not to release any singles beforehand, speculation is rife.
Die-hard fans have pored over her social media posts, searching for clues and theories around the cryptic meaning behind her recent tattoo which many believe is linked to the album’s title.
“I want you all to hear it at once,” she explained. “This collection of songs tells a story, and I want you to feel the flow from beginning to end.”
According to her official website, Hit Me Hard and Soft will be released on eight different vinyl variants which will be produced ‘with the most sustainable practices available’.
All physical variants of Hit Me Hard and Soft will be made of 100 per cent recyclable materials.
“The standard black variant is made from 100 per cent recycled black vinyl,” reads the statement. “The remaining seven coloured vinyl will be made from ECO-MIX or BioVinyl. The former is created using 100 per cent recycled compound made of leftovers from any colour which cannot otherwise be used.”
“These pieces are recycled and re-used for production of future discs; therefore, every disc will be unique and look different from the last. Additionally, Billie is using recyclable compound for her single LP colours, collecting all first run scraps to re-use for additional runs later. BioVinyl helps reduce carbon emissions by 90 per cent versus virgin vinyl by using non-fossil fuel materials like used cooking oil or industrial waste gases while maintaining the same audio and optical quality as conventional vinyl.”
Whether Hit Me Hard and Soft lives up to the hype remains to be seen. But one thing is clear: Billie Eilish is poised to make another seismic impact on the music world. Come May 17th, fans will finally get to experience the full force of her creative vision.
