Perfume Genius Reveals The Doubts And Defiance Behind 'No Shape' Track By Track

Since releasing his debut album Learning under the name Perfume Genius in 2010, Mike Hadreas and his music have both steadily grown bolder, more daring, more defiant. Over the course of four full-length albums his songs have evolved from intimate piano pieces to grandly orchestrated, stirring pop anthems that often rage against both his inner demons and the social and political injustices Hadreas sees in the world.

Hadreas' latest work, No Shape, is the singer's most fearless album to date and perhaps his most personal. To mark its release today (on Matador Records) and to explore its inspirations, we asked Hadreas to share some of the stories behind its creation. He opened up about his battle with Crohn's disease, gender identity and his conflicted views of religion. He also spoke openly, and frequently, about his deep love for his boyfriend, Alan Wyffels, as well as his lingering doubts and existential dread over growing older while remaining relevant as an artist.

You can read Hadreas' thoughts and stories, at the bottom of the page.