Singer-songwriter Nessa Barrett has released her second studio album, titled AFTERCARE. The project, which arrived in mid-November, marks a significant creative and personal evolution for the artist.
Barrett describes the album as a deep dive into the intricate feelings surrounding intimacy, love, and their emotional consequences. She aimed to craft the record from a purely creative standpoint, venturing into new thematic territory. The artist has openly discussed how topics of intimacy were once difficult for her, and she framed the album as a form of personal healing—a journey toward a more empowered and self-assured identity. She expresses hope that listeners will find similar solace and strength in the music.
The 22-year-old artist has consistently prioritized mental health awareness, using her platform to foster connection. She views her music as a vital channel for this, aspiring to create a safe space for her audience. Barrett emphasizes the importance of sharing personal experiences to combat isolation, stating her music aims to be the supportive voice she once needed.
This theme of empowerment directly influenced her recent collaboration with the fashion retailer Nasty Gal. Barrett highlighted the alignment between the brand’s foundational ethos and the core message of AFTERCARE, calling the partnership a natural fit. For her, fashion is a crucial extension of her artistic expression, particularly during performances, helping her feel both comfortable and authentically expressive on stage.
Barrett praised the brand for its commitment to accessibility, noting that creativity and fashion should be available to everyone. She appreciates how the collaboration offers styles that allow individuals to feel confident at various price points.
When it comes to her personal style, the artist values developing a consistent aesthetic over blindly following trends. She draws inspiration from various sources, including iconic figures like Pamela Anderson, but focuses on cultivating a wardrobe that reliably communicates her identity, regardless of shifting fashion currents.
