Singer-songwriter Sabrina Carpenter has stepped into a new artistic era with the release of her seventh studio album, Man’s Best Friend. Dropped on August 29, 2025, the record is already sparking headlines for its mix of slick pop production, playful satire, and a cover image that has ignited debate across the industry.
A Record That Refuses to Play Safe
At just under 40 minutes, Man’s Best Friend wastes no time in making its mark. The songs move between disco beats, retro-rock riffs, and shimmering synths, often punctuated by unexpected touches—clavinet grooves, sitar lines, or percussive instruments borrowed from funk and R&B traditions. Produced in collaboration with Jack Antonoff and John Ryan, the album carries the polish of mainstream pop while still leaving room for Carpenter’s irreverent humor and sharp storytelling.
Singles Setting the Mood
The lead track, Manchild, introduced the project back in June and quickly climbed to the top of charts in the US, UK, and Ireland. Its tongue-in-cheek lyrics and country-pop energy positioned Carpenter as both a critic and a participant in the modern dating scene. The follow-up single, Tears, arrived alongside the album with a striking video featuring actor Colman Domingo. Its campy, Rocky Horror-inspired visuals reinforced Carpenter’s reputation for blending theatrical flair with chart-ready hooks.
Cover Art and Cultural Conversation
No less attention has been paid to the album’s main artwork. The image of Carpenter on all fours while a suited figure tugs her hair has been praised as satirical by some and condemned as regressive by others. Advocacy groups criticized the imagery, while industry veterans, including Carly Simon, defended Carpenter’s right to push boundaries. Responding to the backlash, Carpenter rolled out alternate covers—one cheekily described as “approved by God”—a move that both defused tension and amplified interest.
A Launch Event with Gothic Edge
To celebrate the release, Carpenter hosted an event at Hollywood Forever Cemetery in Los Angeles. Against a dramatic backdrop of stone monuments and flickering lights, fans previewed the Tears video and live performances that leaned into the album’s balance of glamour and dark humor. It was a reminder that Carpenter doesn’t just deliver records; she stages moments designed to linger.
Reactions From Critics and Listeners
Early reviews highlight the album’s inventive arrangements and fearless energy. Outlets praised Carpenter’s willingness to embrace satire while delivering infectious melodies. Some critics noted her lyrics occasionally lean heavily on innuendo, but overall consensus frames the project as a bold step forward. Among fans, initial debates about the cover have given way to excitement over the music itself, with many calling it a stronger, more cohesive record than Short n’ Sweet (2024).
