Manic cover

Manic

Halsey · 2020

52 min · 18 tracks · alternative rock

A kaleidoscope of emotions wrapped in vibrant pop production and introspective lyricism that explores the complexity of identity.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Graveyard — This track showcases Halsey's ability to blend haunting melodies with poignant lyrics about navigating toxic relationships, encapsulating the album's emotional depth.
  • →
    You Should Be Sad — With its blend of country-pop elements and raw vulnerability, this song highlights Halsey's artistic versatility while addressing themes of heartbreak and empowerment.
  • →
    3am — A late-night confessional that dives into feelings of anxiety and uncertainty, reflecting the chaotic emotions that run throughout the album.
  • →
    Still Learning — This track captures Halsey's introspection and growth as she confronts her own flaws and insecurities, resonating with listeners navigating their own journeys.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

58 /100
Treeline
Higher than 49% of albums we've rated

The album blends personal themes with varied production, though interludes disrupt its flow.

What we noticed

  • The production incorporates diverse styles, from pop to alternative rock, with layered instrumentation and vocal harmonies.
Composition 25% of the score
7/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
8/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
6/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
7/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
5/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • wave-like pacing with interludes
  • emotional exploration of relationships
  • cathartic moments of self-reflection
  • dynamic flow with varied tempos
  • late-night introspection and vulnerability

Maybe skip if you

  • prefer straightforward, upbeat tracks
  • seek instant gratification in music

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Critical Peak — Explores complex themes and received critical acclaim, marking a significant artistic moment.
Career context
Released on January 17, 2020, 'Manic' is Halsey's third studio album, following her commercially successful sophomore effort, 'Hopeless Fountain Kingdom'. At this point in her career, Halsey had solidified her status as a leading voice in pop music, leveraging personal narratives to resonate with a broad audience while also experimenting with genre and production styles.
Stylistic neighbors
Lorde· Grimes· Banks

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 Ashley 3:06
  • 2 Clementine 3:54
  • 3 Graveyard 3:01
  • 4 You Should Be Sad 3:25
  • 5 Forever… Is a Long Time 2:48
  • 6 Dominic’s Interlude 1:16
  • 7 I Hate Everybody 2:51
  • 8 3am 3:55
  • 9 Without Me 3:21
  • 10 Finally // Beautiful Stranger 3:41
  • 11 Alanis’ Interlude 2:41
  • 12 Killing Boys 2:23
  • 13 SUGA’s Interlude 2:18
  • 14 More 2:33
  • 15 Still Learning 3:32
  • 16 929 2:55
  • 17 You Should Be Sad (original voicenote) 2:13
  • 18 I’m Not Mad 2:52

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata