Album: High Road

Introduction
"High Road" is the fourth studio album released by American singer Kesha on January 31, 2020. It marks her go back to a more light-hearted and pop-oriented noise, moving far from the more serious and dark subject matter discovered in her previous album, "Rainbow" (2017). The album features collaborations with numerous artists and producers, consisting of Brian Wilson, Sturgill Simpson, John Hill, Dan Reynolds, and others. Getting combined to favorable reviews from critics, "High Road" showcases Kesha's adaptability as an artist and her capability to check out several categories such as pop, nation, rock, and electro.

Background and Production
After experiencing a rough period marked by legal battles and personal battles, Kesha launched her 3rd studio album, "Rainbow", which showcased her vulnerability and strength. It welcomed a more stripped-down sound and featured reflective themes, guiding far from her previous celebration anthem image. Nevertheless, for her 4th album, Kesha decided to take a "high road" and go back to her pop roots while still retaining a sense of growth and maturity.

"High Road" was produced by a diverse cumulative of manufacturers, including Kesha herself, Jeff Bhasker, John Hill, Dan Reynolds, Stint, Sturgill Simpson, and others. The production of the album took nearly two years, with Kesha dealing with the record as early as December 2018. She explained that it was very important for her to make an album that could be fun, happy, and one which people might dance to but still display her growth as an artist.

Themes and Lyrics
"High Road" showcases Kesha's growth both as an artist and as an individual. While she does return to her party-pop roots, it comes with a sense of self-awareness and maturity. The album celebrates the idea of finding joy in dark times, in addition to empowerment and self-acceptance.

A number of tracks on the album handle styles of self-love, including "My Own Dance" and the gospel-influenced "Raising Hell" including Big Freedia. Other tunes check out relationships, such as "Resentment", a collaboration with Brian Wilson, Sturgill Simpson, and Wrabel, which explores the personal impacts of harboring bitterness and remorse. The title track, "High Road", motivates listeners to pick positivity and self-regard over negativity and self-doubt.

Vital Reception
"High Road" got blended to positive evaluations from music critics. Many applauded Kesha's return to her pop roots and her capability to stabilize these aspects with her creative development. However, some critics argued that the album was disjointed and lacked a consistent style or flow.

The album debuted at number 7 on the Billboard 200 chart, offering 45,000 units in its first week. It also charted in different areas around the world, including the UK, Canada, and Australia.

Conclusion
"High Road" acts as an ideal reminder of Kesha's strength and durability, along with her capacity to transform herself through her music. It shows her ability to merge her fun, energetic pop sound with more susceptible and introspective themes. While it does receive some criticism regarding its cohesiveness, the album successfully highlights Kesha's versatility as an artist and her dedication to growth and self-discovery. With "High Road", Kesha welcomes her fans along for the ride, motivating them to accept joy, self-acceptance, and the power of strength.