Sensational

Sensational is the second studio album by Danish R&B singer-songwriter Erika de Casier. Written largely during the 2020 COVID-19 lockdown, the album conceptually centers on dispelling the stereotypes surrounding single women and dating, with many of the songs based on de Casier's personal experiences with bad partners. Its production draws inspiration from music of the late nineties and early 2000s, particularly pop and R&B artists such as Destiny's Child, Craig David, TLC, and Aaliyah, as well as UK garage music. De Casier co-produced the record with Natal Zaks. The album was released on 21 May 2021 by British indie label 4AD, de Casier's first release with the label. Upon its release, Sensational drew widespread praise from music critics, who commended de Casier's vocals and songwriting, as well as the '90s and 2000s-influenced production. It was ranked by numerous publications as one of the best releases of the week, month, and first half of 2021. The album also spawned five singles, all of which drew favorable reviews from music critics and were promoted by music videos self-directed by de Casier. Four of the five videos starred de Casier playing the role of Bianka, her alter ego. Background In 2019, de Casier self-released her debut studio album, Essentials. The album slowly drew attention, appearing on several critics' year-end lists and eventually receiving praise from English singer-songwriter Dua Lipa, who invited de Casier in 2020 to remix her single "Physical". De Casier began writing music for her second album in early 2020 while on tour, recording her first song of the project — "Call Me Anytime" — in one studio session while on tour. During this time, she also signed to the English indie label 4AD; de Casier had long admired the label for its work with the Cocteau Twins, and was pleased by the creative autonomy which they afforded her in writing music.