Ranked: SZA's SOS Deluxe (Lana Del Rey Edition) Songs
SZA's SOS was already a monumental success, a sprawling, emotionally resonant album that dominated the charts and solidified her status as a leading artist. The deluxe edition, featuring the addition of Lana Del Rey on the track "Kill Bill (Remix)," takes this success to another level. But how do the songs stack up against each other in this expanded version? This ranking considers both the original SOS tracks and the newly added remix, factoring in production quality, lyrical depth, and overall impact.
The Methodology: A Blend of Objective and Subjective
Ranking songs is inherently subjective. However, we've tried to approach this task with a balanced perspective, considering elements that can be objectively assessed (production value, technical skill) alongside subjective factors like personal preference and emotional resonance. This ranking is based on repeated listens and consideration of the overall album's flow.
The Ranking: From "Good as Hell" to "Unforgettable"
Tier 1: The Unforgettable
-
Kill Bill (Remix) [feat. Lana Del Rey]: The undeniable highlight of the deluxe edition. The addition of Lana Del Rey elevates "Kill Bill" to a new stratosphere. Her haunting vocals perfectly complement SZA's raw emotion, creating a captivating and deeply moving experience. The production seamlessly blends their styles, resulting in a truly unforgettable collaboration. This is arguably the best track on the entire deluxe album.
-
Kill Bill: Even without Lana Del Rey, the original "Kill Bill" is an absolute powerhouse. The raw energy and confessional lyrics make it a standout track, showcasing SZA's vocal prowess and songwriting ability.
Tier 2: Standout Tracks
-
Shirt: A sultry and seductive track that perfectly encapsulates the album's overall theme of complex relationships and desire. The production is crisp, and SZA's vocal performance is captivating.
-
Blind: This song is a standout for its emotional vulnerability and introspective lyrics. It's a slower burn than some other tracks on the album, but its emotional impact is undeniable.
Tier 3: Solid Additions to the SOS Universe
-
Open Arms: This track showcases a different side of SZA's artistry, showcasing a more tender and vulnerable side to her persona.
-
F2F: A more upbeat track compared to others on the album. The infectious rhythm and catchy melodies make it a memorable addition to the deluxe version.
-
Conceited: Another solid track, "Conceited" displays a confident and assertive side of SZA.
-
Gone Girl: A powerful ballad that highlights SZA's vocal range and emotional depth.
-
Love Language: A more mellow track that provides a nice contrast to the album's more upbeat songs.
-
Nobody Gets Me: A reflective and introspective track that adds another layer to the album's emotional landscape.
Tier 4: Good, but Not Essential
-
Smoking on My Ex Pack: While a popular track from the original album, it sits lower here due to the sheer strength of the other songs in the deluxe version.
-
Good Days: A solid track, but it doesn't quite reach the same heights as some of the other songs on the album.
Note: This ranking is a subjective interpretation and may differ from other listeners' experiences. The beauty of music lies in its personal interpretation.
Conclusion: A Deluxe Edition Worth the Hype
SZA's SOS Deluxe (Lana Del Rey Edition) is a triumph. The addition of "Kill Bill (Remix)" not only adds another fantastic track but also enhances the overall listening experience. While the original SOS was already a masterpiece, this deluxe version elevates it further, solidifying its place as one of the most important albums of recent years. Enjoy the listen!