Lady Gaga has long been known for her eclectic fashion sense and conceptual albums, but her seventh studio release “Mayhem” marks a return to her purest form as an artist. Unlike previous albums where she would often mythologize or over-accessorize, “Mayhem” finds Gaga stripping away the pretension that sometimes clouds her music.
This album is a refreshing reminder of Gaga’s ability to create infectious dance tracks and introspective ballads, all without sacrificing her artistic vision. The result is an enjoyable, varied record that seamlessly blends different styles and influences. Working alongside her fiancé Michael Polansky and producer Andrew Watt, among others, allowed Gaga to tap into her core sound, making “Mayhem” a standout in her discography.
One of the key factors behind “Mayhem”‘s success lies in its ability to revive classic elements from Gaga’s earlier work without feeling nostalgic or self-indulgent. Tracks like “Don’t Call Tonight” and “Garden of Eden” serve as perfect examples of this, effortlessly blending past glories with modern production.
Musically, the album is characterized by its precision and simplicity, recalling Gaga’s collaborations with RedOne on tracks like “The Fame” and “The Fame Monster.” The result is an album that feels both timeless and contemporary, never straying too far from its core aesthetic.
Gaga’s decision to focus on her core sound has paid off in a big way, as the result is an album that feels unencumbered by lofty expectations or unnecessary complexity. By embracing her truest self, Gaga has created something truly special – an album that reminds us that sometimes, less is more, and that the best art comes from being true to oneself.
In “Mayhem,” Lady Gaga finds a rare balance between staying true to her artistic vision and giving her fans what they want: a return to her dance floor-ready persona. The result is an album that will undoubtedly delight both longtime fans and newcomers alike.
Source: https://variety.com/2025/music/album-reviews/lady-gaga-mayhem-album-review-1236330864