The heavily anticipated second half of SZA’s second studio album is raw, gratifying, and free, proving her to be one of the most substantial artists of our generation.

Everyone remembers where they were on that fateful December evening in 2022 when SOS was released into the world. It was a catalog of 23 tracks that were inescapable if you were on social media at all. Although SZA was not an unknown artist, smash hits like ‘Kill Bill’ and ‘Snooze’ immediately solidified her as a household name. Following this, everyone eagerly anticipated to see what came next.

The album title comes from a shortened version of SZA’s real name, Solana. Like SOS, LANA’s songs are melodically cohesive yet all over the place. Sunkissed ballads, poppy numbers and pure R&B mesh together to create a musical atmosphere few musicians can even dream of creating. The therapeutic lyricism flows like honey, smooth and laid on thick, giving every teen and young adult new anthems to get through the stab wounds of life. Every aspect used to create the combination of songs shows the raw and real talent that SZA and her collaborators bring to the table, and no one could ask for anything more.

Building on her reputation for introspective songwriting, SZA captivated listeners with her seamless fusion of R&B, soul, and indie influences, creating a sound that feels both personal and universal — everyone has different music tastes, but everyone listens to SZA. Some people could even argue that she is the artist of our generation. Social media buzz and viral moments also propelled the album’s success, with tracks such as BMF and 30 for 30 (with Kendrick Lamar) trending on platforms like TikTok. LANA closes out with Crybaby, a very sentimental and sad song ​​about SZA’s mental health, self-destructive behavior, and insecurities. This album quickly became loved and well-known, earning positive feedback from SZA’s fanbase and the media.