Review
SZA's "Z," her third extended play, is a sonic canvas where R&B's future meets its past in a delightful tug-of-war. Released under the watchful eye of Top Dawg Entertainment in 2014, this EP is a testament to SZA's artistic evolution, building on the foundation laid by her previous self-released projects. It's a genre-bending joyride, with alternative R&B, neo-soul, and hip-hop all taking the wheel at different times, peppered with the effervescent essence of '80s synth-pop. The production credits read like a who's who of beat-making brilliance, with Mac Miller, Emile Haynie, and XXYYXX among those who lent their magic to create a sound that's as fluid as it is synthetic, thanks to their clever manipulation of vocals.
Diving into "Z" is like peeling back the layers of an onion, with each track revealing more about the intricate dance of love and vulnerability. SZA's voice, often whispered yet always powerful, weaves through the music like a golden thread, her introspective lyrics painting vivid pictures of love's labyrinth. Whether she's reflecting on the complexities of romance in "Ur," playfully sparring with Chance the Rapper on "Childs Play," or getting lost in the wistful melody of "Sweet November," SZA delivers a masterstroke in storytelling, blending wisdom and wit with every line. The EP's critical acclaim and chart success - including a comfortable spot in the top 40 of the US Billboard 200 and a number nine on the US Hip-Hop/R&B chart - are just the cherries on top of an already delectable listening experience.
"Z" isn't just a stepping stone in SZA's journey; it's a destination in itself, a place where fans and newcomers alike can bask in the warmth of her musical innovation. It's an EP that not only set the stage for her later triumphs, like the smash hit debut album "Ctrl," but also cemented her as a beacon of creativity in the ever-expanding universe of R&B and neo-soul. - Lena
