Perfume Genius, the stage name of Michael Alden Hadreas, has made a significant impact on the music scene with his unique blend of art pop and indie rock. His professional journey began with the release of his debut album, “Learning,” in 2010, which garnered critical acclaim and established him as a formidable talent in the industry. The album’s intimate tracks, recorded in his home, showcased his songwriting prowess and emotional depth, earning an impressive 8.2 rating from Pitchfork.
Following his debut, Hadreas continued to evolve as an artist with his sophomore album, “Put Your Back N 2 It,” released in 2012. This album further solidified his reputation, receiving praise from both critics and fans alike. The promotional video for the album, featuring a bold visual narrative, highlighted his willingness to challenge societal norms and engage with themes of sexuality and identity.
In 2014, Hadreas released “Too Bright,” a transformative album co-produced by Adrian Utley of Portishead. This project marked a new trajectory in his career, with Pitchfork awarding it an 8.5 rating and praising its powerful and wise compositions. His performance of the single “Queen” on The Late Show with David Letterman showcased his captivating stage presence and further expanded his audience.
Continuing to push artistic boundaries, Hadreas released “No Shape” in 2017, which received an 8.8 rating from Pitchfork and was hailed as his most realized work. His subsequent albums, including “Set My Heart on Fire Immediately” and “Ugly Season,” have further demonstrated his innovative approach to music, solidifying his status as a leading voice in contemporary music.