With more than 64 million streams within the first day of its release, “Man’s Best Friend” came out breaking records. Sabrina Carpenter’s seventh studio album became the top streamed album in 2025 by a female artist on the first day it was released on Aug. 29. This 12-track pop album encapsulates Carpenter’s risque, cheeky and unapologetic persona. Although musically and lyrically a shift from her successful album “Short and Sweet,” a majority of fans are welcoming the ‘70s inspired production with open arms.
“Manchild”, the lead single, kickstarted the era of “Man’s Best Friend.” This track is very similar to “Short n’ Sweet,” highlighting Carpenter’s musical style and allowing for a transition between the two albums. After listening to “Man’s Best Friend,” choosing “Manchild” as the single makes complete sense. “Short n’ Sweet” was still on many fans’ minds and playlists, and other songs on the most recent album don’t completely match the aesthetic of it. “Manchild” gave us a glimpse of the man-hating synth pop that would be quite prevalent on her latest album.
Carpenter’s album has been out for a little over a week now, giving me time to sit with the songs, listen on repeat and be able to really solidify my feelings with the album. On first listen, I already knew these were going to be new favorites, but some took me a couple listens to understand. I have been an avid Carpenter fan since 2020, but she became one of my top artists after the release of “emails i can’t send.” “Man’s Best Friend” is completely different from music she’s put out before, but at the same time perfectly encapsulates the brand and persona that is Carpenter.
As a pop fangirl, when I found out that Jack Antonoff (famously known for working with Taylor Swift) was a producer on this album, I knew we were in good hands. Although I would argue that “Man’s Best Friend” is a non-skip album, I do have favorites. “We Almost Broke Up Again Last Night” and “Nobody’s Son” stood out the most to me and have been on repeat since they came out.
“We Almost Broke Up Again Last Night,” a conversational pop track, Carpenter recounts her experiences of a dysfunctional on and off again relationship. The bridge reflects the anger that came with these interactions, “You say we’re drifting apart/I said, ‘Yeah, I f***king know’/Big deal, we’ve been here before, and we’ll be here tomorrow.” Although they’ve been in this situation before and are having obvious issues, those are going to be ignored continuing the cycle. Her vocals within this track really shine through, especially in the bridge. Her range is especially highlighted throughout this song.
“Nobody’s Son” accentuates Carpenter’s feelings of frustration and longing. The bridge brings this narrative home, “That boy is corrupt/Could you raise him to love me, maybe?/He sure f**ked me up/And, yes, I’m talkin’ ’bout your baby.” Throughout the bridge the instrumental follows her emotions, getting drum heavy as well as adding whip-crack percussion.
Overall I really enjoyed how cohesive “Man’s Best Friend” is, the songs combined bring us on an emotional, sexy and dance inducing journey with Sabrina Carpenter. When listening to the album I imagine them live and picture her onstage. Music videos or another tour could bring new life to this already fresh era. Sabrina Carpenter fed her fans on Aug. 29 with new hits, which will hopefully be recognized this award season.