root Two years after the chart-topping success of her sophomore album, SOS, SZA is back and better than ever, with the release of SOS Deluxe: Lana. Back in 2022, SOS spawned hits like ‘Kill Bill’ and ‘Snooze’, establishing SZA as one of the most popular R&B artists of the past decade. So, it’s no surprise that the masses were eager for more. Given SZA’s history of teasing fans with unreleased snippets for months (and sometimes even years), fans waited with bated breath to see if the singer-songwriter would stay true to her promise of a 2024 release. In the end, SZA did not disappoint — Lana hit streaming services in late December, with just two weeks to spare before the end of the year.
Serving as a deluxe edition of her last album, this reissue features 15 fresh tracks, each reflecting her R&B roots and signature candid lyricism. SZA turns to nature as her primary inspiration for the aesthetics of this album, with eccentric bug-themed visuals. She situates herself amongst flora and fauna, seeming perfectly at ease around insect props and farm animals. As for the album’s title, SZA references a childhood nickname derived from her real name, Solána. Lana’s deeply personal nature and focus on authenticity elevate her already-acclaimed discography – it serves as a smooth follow-up to SOS, as though turning to a new page of a familiar story.
Credits: @sza/Instagram
Kicking off the album is ‘No More Hiding’, a soothingly sincere R&B track that expresses a resolution to accept one’s flaws wholeheartedly. To create its tranquil ambience, the song incorporates the sound of rain and relaxing guitar chords. Lyrics like ‘I wanna feel sun on my skin / Even if it burns or blinds me / I wanna be purified within’ reflect SZA’s internal turmoil and desire to live life with honesty. Sonically similar to original tracks from SOS, yet offering a fresh perspective nonetheless, this first track gracefully sets up Lana’s themes and overall tone. ‘Crybaby’ is another relaxing song on the album, leaning towards more traditional R&B. In this emotionally raw song, SZA reflects on public opinion on her life and work. The track takes an honest look at her insecurities, adding a layer of relatability to her artistry. Her polished yet emotive vocals shine through amidst elegant violins and a comforting bassline, highlighting the vulnerability of the track.
In contrast, ‘BMF’ marks one of SZA’s rare deviations into more lighthearted and romantic music, joining the ranks of earlier viral love songs like ‘Snooze’ and ‘Open Arms’. The effort certainly pays off, with ‘BMF’ rising in online popularity on platforms like TikTok and Instagram. Interpolating 1960s bossa nova hit ‘The Girl from Ipanema’, this track features a lively rhythm and playful lyrics about a whirlwind romance. Despite its December release date, it has all the makings of the next “song of the summer” — it isn’t difficult to imagine this song soundtracking a memorable beach vacation or fiery summer fling.
Credits: @sza/Instagram
Keeping in line with the string of upbeat tunes, ‘30 For 30’ is a defiant blend of hip-hop and R&B. The song discusses protecting one’s peace and staying away from fake friends, as SZA explores the rap genre with full confidence. Renowned rapper Kendrick Lamar also features on this punchy track, delivering melodic verses to compliment SZA’s vocals. In fact, this track marks their eighth song together in 10 years, proving that the longtime collaborators remain a match made in music heaven.
Out of all the new tracks, two unique tracks stand out as my personal favourites. ‘Scorsese Baby Daddy’ adds a pop-punk twist to the album, blending electric guitars and thumping drums with SZA’s distinctive vocals. Having earlier referenced films in songs like ‘Kill Bill’, SZA’s love for cinema continues with this release — the song discusses a tumultuous relationship, on par with the intense drama and violence of legendary director Martin Scorsese’s filmography. Next, ‘Kitchen’ takes a candid look at a toxic relationship, against the backdrop of echoing synths and SZA’s dreamy vocals. The introspective track highlights her conflicting emotions as she deals with love that hurts, and reflects on how it’s often ‘so hard to do the right thing’. She reminisces on the relationship’s history and moments of happiness, remaining reluctant to leave for her own good.
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Lastly, ‘Saturn’ is the celestial highlight of this reissue, transporting listeners to an entirely different planet. Released back in February 2024, this Grammy-winning track functions as the deluxe album’s lead single. Its enchanting synths and ethereal high notes bring to mind a night sky full of twinkling stars, while its lyrics cover themes of escapism and nihilism. SZA dreams of a better life in a different world, focusing on the song’s central message — ‘life’s better on Saturn’.
While two years is a long time to wait for a reissue, Lana draws listeners back into the world of SOS with ease. New themes and genres are explored without betraying SZA’s distinctive style. Her music remains familiar to longtime fans, with all the elements that draw people to her artistry – bold yet relatable lyrics, smooth instrumentals, and a seamless blend of genres. Yet, her sound also displays maturity as she continues to evolve as an artist, all while staying true to herself. Lana presents us with a certain artistic confidence that helps SZA continue to stand out – she’s carved out her own secure niche in the fickle music industry, yet she seems to soar to new heights with every release. So, for as long as SZA makes music with her unique passion and sincerity, it’s clear that this star will continue to shine.