Album: Smile

Introduction
"Smile" is the sixth studio album by American vocalist and songwriter Katy Perry, released on August 28, 2020, by Capitol Records. It marks a return to Perry's signature pop sound, following her 2017 studio album "Witness" which try out brand-new styles. At first entitled "KP5", the album was later relabelled after the release of its lead single "Smile" which encapsulates the overarching theme of strength and growth throughout the album. The album features cooperations with numerous well-known musicians and writers, consisting of Charlie Puth, Zedd, and Oak Felder, to name a few.

Styles and influences
"Smile" is a departure from the politically-charged and reflective themes discovered on her previous work, "Witness". Instead, this album showcases Katy Perry's rediscovery of her own happiness and strength, as she reclaims her "shimmer". The album was deeply affected by major life occasions, including her struggles with anxiety, synchronised breakup and reconciliation with her fiancé, Orlando Bloom, and her experience with individual development through treatment.

The album is loaded with themes of self-reflection, empowerment, and renewal, as seen in the tracks "Daisies" and "Teary Eyes". Furthermore, the lyrics highlight the value of conquering challenges and returning to a location of pleasure, happiness, and smiling through misfortune.

Style and noise
Musically, "Smile" is a go back to Perry's signature lively, energetic pop sounds while incorporating a range of designs and aspects, such as house, electronica, and even reggae. The album showcases memorable tunes, dance beats, and uplifting melodies that are similar to her earlier hits like "Teenage Dream" and "Firework".

Opening with a positive disco-infused track "Never Really Over", the album takes listeners on a journey through a more mature perspective on love, joy, and self-growth. Tracks like "Cry About It Later" and "Tucked" showcase enjoyable dance-pop beats with playful lyrics, providing a well-executed balance in between Perry's identifiable pop design and contemporary electronic trends.

Reception and business performance
In spite of getting blended reviews from music critics, "Smile" handled to debut at number 5 on the Billboard 200 chart, ending up being Perry's 5th top-ten album in the United States. The album likewise charted within the leading 10 in numerous other nations, consisting of the United Kingdom, Australia, and Canada.

The lead single "Daisies" peaked at number 40 on the Billboard Hot 100, while the title track "Smile" made it to number 98. Regardless of the moderate chart efficiency of the songs, they made appreciation for their catchy hooks and remarkable melodies.

Conclusion
"Smile" by Katy Perry serves as a testimony to her development and durability in a shifting music landscape, while providing fans a taste of her traditional pop sound that skyrocketed her to popularity. With themes of self-empowerment, joy, and redemption infused throughout the album, Perry delivers tunes that not only talk to her individual experiences but likewise resonate with a broader audience. Despite its commercial and vital reception, "Smile" holds a special place in Katy Perry's discography as a revitalizing and vibrant collection of tracks, marking her victorious go back to the popular song scene.