Music

Vanessa Carlton Unveils New Single “Animal” Ahead of Upcoming Album ‘Veils’

Dec 4, 2025

Vanessa Carlton is embracing a new era in her storied career, thrilling fans by unveiling the music video for her new single “Animal.” The track is an early look at her upcoming album, ‘Veils’, scheduled for a spring 2026 release and produced by the acclaimed Dave Fridmann. The video itself was filmed and edited by Interiorstate, providing a compelling visual counterpart to the song’s intense introspection. Carlton is not slowing down, having recently scored her first film, Wish You Were Here, with husband John McCauley of Deer Tick, directed by Julia Stiles.

The new single delves into profound themes of acceptance and internal conflict. Vanessa Carlton explains: “Animal” is about stoicism. The idea of knowing we cannot control external forces; she is being hunted and she accepts the reality of what is happening. The acceptance allows her to truly see the animal. Does she even identify with this creature? Every human has an animal within them. Are you hunting? Are you being hunted? Who is the animal?” She continues to challenge expectations, having made her Broadway debut as Carole King and constantly evolving her artistic identity since her massive hit “A Thousand Miles.” Carlton will support the new music with a 2026 U.S. Tour, with tickets on sale now, and one dollar from each ticket sold will go to the Save The Music Foundation.

Track Listing