SZA’s debut studio album Ctrl—which she began teasing under the name “A” the past few months— is the long–anticipated part 3 of her official grand entrance into the R&B scene (her first two parts being the self–titled “S” and “Z”). The Jersey native spins tales of love and revenge as she chronicles her own missteps and heartbreaks in the world of modern dating. Mellow beats and nods to 90’s era sound are the perfect backdrop for the R&B goddess’ no–fucks–given lyrics and raw soul. No stranger to high–profile musical cameos, SZA’s own verses and storyteller prowess outshine appearances by rap greats Kendrick Lamar and Travis Scott on the tracks “Doves in The Wind” and the popular “Love Galore.” The album’s progression showcases diversity, changing from a middle finger to the fuckbois of the world to an intimate trip inside her insecurities to slow jams that make you want to body roll.
Grade: B+/A-
Download: The Weekend
Sounds Best When: Getting your chill on solo or with a crew—perfect sunset and summer shandy not included.
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