Classic Critic Rating: 9/10

Copy-Edited by Samia Orva

After the release of her three-time Grammy-winning R&B album SOS, Sza returned with her latest single, “Saturn,” on February 22. The song was first introduced to the public via a Mastercard commercial during the 66th Annual Grammys, which is where I first stumbled upon it. “Saturn” is a soothing track that captures other-worldly experiences.

The song opens with soft instrumentals and rising and falling scales. This may be a stretch, but I interpreted it as a spaceship starting and lighting up. This buildup sets the mood for the rest of the song, and the beat drops in the first verse.

In my opinion, Sza’s lyricism and delivery is at the top of its game. “Saturn” depicts the desire to escape to Saturn because life on Earth is laborious and unrewarding — it portrays the typical “the grass is greener on the other side” feeling. In each pre chorus, Szadelivers the last line of each word in three rhythmic syllables. For example, the words “paradigm,” “paradise,” and “hell is like” are sung in a pattern that flows into one another. They don’t all necessarily rhyme, but this pattern makes the song all the more interesting. She also makes many small references to Hindu spiritualism, mentioning “Nirvana” and “karma.” I enjoy all these little aspects intertwined in the lyrics, and this inclusion was a clever way to emphasize the overall ethereal feeling of the song. The repetition of “ooh, ooh” towards the end mimics the sensation of floating away to Saturn, a fitting way to close this elegant piece.

Many of Sza’s songs have a certain sensual sound that is distinct to the type of songs she releases. Her voice is unique, and her personal style definitely shines in this song. It is very catchy and displays how she has grown as an artist. Compared to her previous album, “Saturn” is nothing revolutionarily new, but I enjoy her current genre of music. This song will be on repeat for sure.