Going through a breakup? Been in a toxic or controlling relationship? Lacking self confidence? Then this album is for you! Banks released her second album, “The Altar,” with Harvest Records at the end of this past September. This alternative masterpiece expresses the frustrations of love, from learning to first love yourself, to dealing with ex-lovers.

“Gemini Feed,” “F**k With Myself,” and “Trainwreck” are definitely the top songs of the album. “Gemini Feed” is about Banks and her ex-lover, both of whose astrological signs are the Gemini. She expresses her frustration by saying, “And to think you would get me to the altar / Like I follow you around like a dog that needs water.” She is angered, because she is more than capable of making her own decisions, and she doesn’t just go along with whatever other people want. “Gemini Feed” is the kind of song that makes you want to walk up to your ex and tell them everything they ever did wrong. The song brings about a strong feeling of independence because it shows that you don’t need a lover in your life to be happy.

“F**k With Myself” is very sensual. There is not one specific meaning to the song. It can be interpreted in a variety of ways. The beat of the song is very unique and can easily get stuck in your head. The song is a confidence booster because it causes you stop caring what other people think.

“Trainwreck” is all about trying to escape from a toxic relationship. Banks expresses how being in a bad relationship can feel like a trainwreck. It shows the terror and impending doom that red flags give off. Banks makes you feel the claustrophobia and terror of being trapped in an unhealthy relationship through her unique voice and captivating soul.

Not all songs in the album are as intriguing, however, which is why I am not giving “The Altar” a full 5 stars. However, the album as a whole is very powerful and sends several very important messages about love being unapologetically yourself. Banks has definitely set the bar high for her future music.