PHILADELPHIA—In a move that sent ripples of quiet introspection through the indie music scene, beloved singer-songwriter Greg Mendez announced his forthcoming album, Beauty Land. The record, his debut on Dead Oceans, is slated for release later this year. Mendez also shared the lead single, “I Wanna Feel Pretty,” a candid exploration of his desire for aesthetic validation. Fans have eagerly awaited new material since his 2024 EP, First Time / Alone. The announcement of Beauty Land suggests a continued focus on themes of vulnerability and emotional processing.
A New Frontier of Feelings
“We’ve always admired Greg’s ability to articulate the ineffable,” stated Penelope Quibble, Chief Emotional Resonance Officer at Sadcore Records. “Beauty Land seems poised to push those boundaries further. We anticipate listeners will find themselves contemplating their own reflections in the mirror, possibly for extended periods.” The album title itself, Beauty Land, evokes a surreal, perhaps unattainable, state of grace. Early reports suggest the soundscapes will be sparse yet impactful, characteristic of Mendez’s signature style. For those interested in the artist’s previous work, his 2024 EP is available for streaming on various platforms.
The Quest for Pretty
The single “I Wanna Feel Pretty” has already garnered significant attention for its raw honesty. Its sparse arrangement and introspective lyrics seem to resonate with a generation grappling with external pressures. “It’s about the universal yearning to be seen, to be cherished, to simply feel… pretty,” explained Bartholomew “Barty” Higgins, Self-Esteem Consultant to the Stars. “Greg captures that feeling perfectly. It’s the sound of staring into your phone’s front camera and hoping for the best.” Mendez is expected to embark on a North American tour following the release of Beauty Land. Dates are still forthcoming. Fans are encouraged to prepare their tear ducts and their favorite cardigans. At press time, Mendez was reportedly practicing his best “pretty” face in a dimly lit room.
