Courtney Barnett Releases New Singles Ahead of Fourth Album ‘Creature of Habit’
- 4 days ago
- 2 min read
Updated: 2 days ago
Grammy and BRIT Award-nominated Australian singer-songwriter Courtney Barnett has unveiled two new singles, “Mantis” and “Sugar Plum,” offering fans another preview of her upcoming fourth studio album Creature of Habit, which is set for release on March 27 via Fiction Records.
“MANTIS” LISTEN HERE & “SUGAR PLUM” LISTEN HERE
FOURTH STUDIO ALBUM CREATURE OF HABIT OUT MARCH 27
PRE-SAVE / PRE-ORDER HERE. UK TOUR BEGINS MARCH 28
The tracks mark the third and fourth singles from the highly anticipated album, following earlier releases “Stay in Your Lane” and “Site Unseen,” the latter featuring Waxahatchee. Together, the songs signal what Barnett describes as a new creative chapter in her musical journey.
Inspiration Behind “Mantis”
One of the album’s standout tracks, “Mantis,” was inspired by an unexpected moment during the writing process. Barnett explained that a praying mantis appearing in her studio became a symbolic turning point while she was struggling creatively.
According to the singer, the encounter felt like a sign. After spotting the insect in her desert home, she researched its symbolism and discovered that it often represents patience, perseverance, and guidance, which ultimately helped her find the missing piece of the song.
The track blends bright guitar melodies with introspective lyrics, reflecting the theme of searching for meaning and direction.
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Themes of Self-Reflection
The second new release, “Sugar Plum,” explores Barnett’s long-standing struggle with self-doubt, a theme that runs throughout the album. The song gradually builds toward an uplifting refrain that shifts the tone toward optimism and self-acceptance.
Her upcoming album, Creature of Habit, delves deeply into questions about personal growth and learning to step outside one’s own limitations.
Barnett wrote much of the record after relocating from Australia to Los Angeles and following the closure of her long-running label Milk! Records. The period of change prompted her to channel uncertainty and reflection directly into the songwriting process.
UK Tour Announced
Alongside the new releases, Barnett is preparing for a UK tour beginning on March 28, where fans will hear the new material live for the first time. The tour includes performances in several cities, including:
Manchester – BBC Music Festival (March 28)
Sunderland – Independent (March 29)
The Trades Club, Hebden Bridge (March 30)
Bedford – Bedford Esquires (April 1)
Margate – Where Else? (April 2)

‘Creature of Habit’ Tracklist
The forthcoming album will feature ten tracks:
Stay In Your Lane
Wonder
Site Unseen (feat. Waxahatchee)
Mostly Patient
One Thing At A Time
Mantis
Sugar Plum
Same
Great Advice
Another Beautiful Day
With its mix of introspective songwriting and bright indie-rock arrangements, Creature of Habit is expected to mark a significant new phase in Barnett’s evolving sound.



