Released after many delays, SZA’s debut album, “CTRL,” showcases her honest nature and instinctive talent for singing and songwriting. The highly-anticipated album offers an unfiltered glimpse into SZA’s hardships and victories as a twenty-something woman grappling with growing up.
SZA’s previous mixtapes served as a warm-up for this polished yet uninhibited debut. While her 2014 EP, “Z,” demonstrates her distinct style and reflects diverse creative influences, it fails to provide the same cohesiveness as “CTRL.” With “CTRL,” SZA finds her voice and sticks to it. The album embodies her definite growth as an established artist.
Throughout the 14 track album, the R&B artist’s effortless melodies, breezy vocal riffs and uninhibited lyrics take center stage. Though SZA is undoubtedly open about her insecurities and relationship regrets, “CTRL” also exhibits her admirable restraint as an artist. She manages to maintain consistency in terms of lyrical themes, high production quality and flawless transitions. Hard-hitting features from respected artists like Travis Scott and label mate Kendrick Lamar only enhance her versatility as a musician.
Each track resonates as a lovingly cultivated piece of art while challenging one’s notions of control and freedom. In particular, standout tracks “20 Something” and “Broken Clocks” tap into complex coming-of-age experiences. SZA candidly addresses her inner thoughts to tell a universal story of struggle and redemption. With lyrics like, “How you ain’t say you was movin’ forward? / Honesty hurts when you’re getting older,” she gingerly communicates the tender emotions associated with maturing and letting go. Throughout “CTRL,” SZA wrestles with vulnerability, freedom and self-reliance.
As record label Top Dawg Entertainment’s sole female artist, SZA holds it down for women. An exemplar of feminine strength, she unapologetically recognizes her imperfections and actively seeks to improve and learn from her failings. In “Prom” — an ode to the abiding insecurities of growing up — she croons, “Promise to get a little / Better as I get older.” Her insight on personal growth and love contributes a much-needed female perspective to TDE’s male-dominated roster, which includes artists like ScHoolboy Q and Lamar.
By opening up on her flaws, SZA demonstrates her courageous nature and honest dedication to self improvement. SZA is not perfect, and she doesn’t fit into any preconceived notions or ideals of femininity. When it comes to being disrespected, SZA defends herself passionately. She often includes skits from her mother and grandmother, who encourage self-respect and strength.
Soon,“Love Galore” featuring Scott, SZA’s grandmother advises her, saying, “If you don't say something, speak up for yourself, they think you stupid, you know what I'm saying?”
With her assertive lyrics, SZA takes these familial lessons to heart. In “CTRL,” she consistently demands dignity and respect for herself. In “Wavy (Interlude)” featuring James Fauntleroy, she sings, “Just give as much as you take / Forgive as much as you hate / Or get the f—k out.”
SZA’s unique voice and unconventional approach to R&B take “CTRL” to the next level. Characterized by an edgy sweetness, her vocals hint at her dominant jazz influences. Tracks like “Love Galore” highlight SZA’s inclination for combining soft, raspy vocals and bittersweet lyrics. Additionally, she often incorporates pop and electronic influences to deliver a multi-layered and diverse listening experience. Taking inspiration from hip-hop and 80s pop, SZA’s musical influences are as distinct as her lyrics. The album features carefully selected samples from a variety of artists like Busta Rhymes, Donna Summer and Justin Timberlake. The wealth of inspiration from which she draws upon results in a skillfully produced alternative R&B sound.
Though the album is entitled, “CTRL,” SZA explores and enjoys freedom through vulnerable, reflective lyrics. Her genuine artistry and willingness to express raw emotions make “CTRL” an exceptional debut.
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