Janelle Monae The ArchAndroid

The Ark Android is Janelle Monáe’s “self-realization album.” Monáe’s previous concept album, Metropolis: The Chase Suite, introduced the world to futuristic android Cindi Mayweather. The Ark Android acts as the second and third suites of the story, where Mayweather realizes her super powers and discovers that she is the Ark Android, a figure that will ultimately lead the androids to freedom. Monáe uses this story as a parallel to modern-day communities and individuals who take a stand and challenge issues. While recording, Monáe worked with the Emory Symphony Orchestra and visited Turkey and Prague in order to expand her sound.

Abstract by Leah Urbom