This Is What the Truth Feels Like

Gwen Stefani has long used music as a safe haven, a space where she can openly and candidly express her feelings. This Is What the Truth Feels Like transforms her breakup with Gavin Rossdale into soothing, therapeutic pop. “Used to Love You” is her most deeply confessional track since No Doubt’s “Don’t Speak.” “Truth” and “Misery” gently examine emotional scars to propulsive dance-pop. Then, around the flirty “Send Me a Picture,” the healing sunshine brings the heat. Stefani counts blessings on “Rare” and playfully blocks exes on “Red Flag” and “Naughty.” Truth is filled with tears and laughs—Stefani bravely attacking grief, stage by stage.