#472 SZA, 'Ctrl' (2017)

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The debut album from one of the most promising new artists of the past 5 years. Spanning genres, SZA kinda reminds me a bit of when Frank Ocean came onto the scene. For me, she has the same type of creativity and artistic integrity. I had originally listened to this album on release and back then it received a few spins as it was one of the most critically acclaimed albums of the year. This album is multi-faceted and on each listen I discover something new to like. Her lyrics are self-reflective, sometimes crass, often honest and at times amusing.

I always enjoy hearing Kendrick Lamar’s voice on a record and as an artist at his peak, it was a coup for her to have him feature on the record. She would go on to feature on the best song of the Lamra-curated ‘Black Panther’ soundtrack. Travis Scott also makes an appearance on the record. SZA is no stranger to major artists, having written for Beyonce, &Nicki Minaj, amongst others. Originally scheduled to be released in 2015, the album was delayed due to SZA’s “blinding paralysis brought on by anxiety.” She continued working on the record until her label eventually took her hard drive away from her in 2017. This is the result. Gateway track on the record is the single, ‘Drew Barrymore,’ followed by ‘Prom.’ Looking forward to seining what this future star has in store. 

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