Critic Rating: 10/10
After two years of anticipation following SZA’s release of SOS in 2022, SOS Deluxe: LANA was finally released on December 20, 2024, and needless to say it did not disappoint. The album is rich with standout tracks, and is the perfect example of what I would consider a staple no-skip album. The composition takes the listener on an emotional journey filled with reflection and devotion, and the vulnerability found within her lyrics turns the listening experience into a journey of healing and closure. After listening to this album countless times, I can say with confidence that there’s a song for everyone, whether you’re in the mood for soulful, vulnerable tracks or more velvety and atmospheric R&B classics.
“No More Hiding”: (9/10)
The album starts off strong with “No More Hiding,” a track that perfectly encapsulates the complexities of love while trying to stay true to oneself. The song was especially memorable for its earthy quality and woodsy atmosphere; the sharp, yet mellow instrumentals set the perfect emotional tone for the album. The authenticity of this track is unmatched, in not just her vocal expression, but the depth behind her songwriting. Introspective lyrics such as, “I wanna feel sun on my skin / Even if it burns or blinds me” convey SZA’s journey of self discovery. In addition to this, the lyrics utilize a powerful metaphor for the vulnerability that comes with embracing life’s unpredictability. “No More Hiding” is what I would personally consider the perfect opener for LANA, and it sets the listener up for the perfect unfiltered, raw compositions yet to come.
“What Do I Do”: (10/10)
I found it really interesting how “What Do I Do” opens and closes with a cell phone ring. In the opening of the song, she responds to the phone ring with “Hello?”, but at the end of the track, the sound effect instantly signifies the end of the song. The circular use of the phone ring works especially well to replicate a sense of closure, since the song discusses the emotional aftermath of being cheated on. SZA’s lyrics in this song are especially well thought out, and the way she chose to pair certain beats made for an atmospheric listen. This song was an immensely captivating listen, and her strategic use of sound effects and overlapping vocals certainly earns this song a 10/10.
“30 For 30” (feat. Kendrick Lamar): (10/10)
It’s safe to say that SZA and Kendrick Lamar have never missed a beat on a collaboration, and “30 For 30” proves just that. Debuting at number one on the “Hot R&B Songs” Billboard chart, “30 For 30” is nothing less than a lyrical masterpiece, with the richness of Kendrick’s rap flowing seamlessly with SZA’s more high pitched vocals. When overlapping with one another, the duo’s astonishing vocals become velvety, especially in lines like, “I get this type of feeling you ain’t accustomed to / I swear I’d be at peace if it weren’t for you.” Since this overlap occurs very few times throughout the song, it makes this junction all the more harmonic and impactful. I personally really enjoyed how their voices did not overshadow each other; the differences in their singing styles worked together perfectly without overlay. The rapid back and forth between SZA and Kendrick’s lines effectively maintained the upbeat pace of the song, keeping it engaging and fun to listen to. “30 For 30” is definitely up there as one of my favorite tracks from LANA.
“Diamond Boy (DTM)”: (10/10)
“Diamond Boy” is definitely one of the more softer, vulnerable songs in LANA, yet SZA was still able to impressively deliver a resonant story through the production of this track. DTM in the title of the song stands for “doing too much,” reflecting on how she felt she was overreaching in her relationships. The lyrics of “Diamond Boy” examine themes of self-doubt, uncertainty, and love, and if the thoughtful lyricism isn’t enough to make you start tearing up, the mellow, soulful quality of the beat is sure to drive you to tears.
“BMF”: (10/10)
Following “Diamond Boy (DTM),” the mood of the album does an immediate 360 with “BMF,” a vibrant track following SZA as she obsesses over the feeling of being lovestruck. “BMF” is, in my opinion, the perfect pop of energy the album needed; it allows you to feel carefree and enjoy living in your delusions. The dynamics of this song is unparalleled by the other tracks, and I enjoyed how this track gives the listener an intermission from the emotional intensity of the rest of the album.
“Scorsese Baby Daddy”: (12/10)
Since the release of LANA, “Scorsese Baby Daddy” still stands as my ultimate favorite track. The melody is infectious, and her simple, yet mesmerizing beginning harmony was single handedly enough for me to have this song on repeat for weeks on end. The opening notes iconically match SZA’s signature style, yet at the same time have a twist to them unlike anything I’ve heard from her. Her vocal performance in not just the introduction but throughout the song is astonishing, ranging from powerful to soothing. The song is upbeat, while still maintaining a more soulful vibe — it’s essentially a combination of everything you could possibly want in one song.
“Crybaby”: (9/10)
“Crybaby” is an incredibly vulnerable track, arguably one of the most emotionally raw pieces in LANA. This song contains some of the most intense, profound lyrics; lines such as, “If I stopped blaming the world for my faults / I could evolve / Maybe the pressure just made me too soft,” have lingered in my mind ever since the album was released. Her lyrics explore the theme of self-acknowledgement, portraying that despite her desire for growth, she is unapologetic for who she is. SZA’s breathtaking vocals gave the song a perfect harmony, and this added touch of elegance in the last verse only accentuates the beauty of this song.
“Joni” (Feat. Don Toliver): (8.5/10)
“Joni” was revealed to the public a few weeks subsequent to the release of LANA, yet it instantly rose to the top of my list of memorable songs from the album. This quiet, ethereal song perfectly captures the weight of expectations others hold for us, while intertwining themes of affection, uncertainties, and yearning. This is the second song on SOS that SZA has produced with Don Toliver, and unsurprisingly, both occasions exceeded my expectations. Don Toliver’s rich, yet harmonious voice matches perfectly with SZA’s, and while I’ll admit that I would’ve loved to hear more overlapping of the two’s voices, each one still sounded beautiful individually.
SOS Deluxe: LANA perfectly embodies SZA’s progression as an R&B singer, as she continues to rapidly dominate the music industry. She quickly rose to the sixth most streamed artist on Spotify following the release of her album, and her stardom will only prosper from here. SZA did an impeccable job at taking her personal experiences and conveying them into universal emotions, making her music all the more inclusive and evocative. SOS is infamous for the impact it had on SZA’s career, and LANA only expanded its emotional boundaries, building upon the beauty of her repertoire. SOS Deluxe: LANA touched my heart in more ways than one, and its authenticity undoubtedly makes this album deserving of a 10/10.
