There is “No more hiding” from SZA’s “Lana”
After waiting an extra 15 hours past the scheduled release date, SZA finally released “Lana,” the deluxe version of her 2022 album “SOS,” on Dec. 20, 2024. It includes some “SOS” outtakes, 15 new tracks and “Saturn,” a previously recorded song that was released in February 2024.
SZA starts off strong with “No more hiding,” a song that explores the want for a genuine connection and vulnerability, no matter the cost or potential heartbreak. SZA talks about wanting “to feel the sun on my skin even if it burns or blinds [her].” The guitar plucking and emotional tone of the song introduces the main themes of yearning and openness in the upcoming tracks.
This song is very beautiful because although it talks about a very serious topic, it feels like SZA is coming to terms with the fact that she must open herself to others in order to find a meaningful relationship. I like that this song has a more quiet tune because it makes her voice sound more raw.
“BMF,” moves the album to a much happier tone. She sampled the beat from the song “The Girl from Ipanema” by Stan Getz. It surprised me, considering that most of the other tracks have very low beats. I did not enjoy this one personally, as I felt the shift of tone did not fit in with the rest of the tracks.
“Another life” is my favorite song on this album. It showcases her amazing vocals and feels ethereal to listen to. SZA talks about longing for a relationship whilst having fears of loss and opening up to others, a main theme throughout this work. The instrumentals complimented her voice perfectly, as they didn’t overshadow her.
The album as a whole feels mostly consistent, as the tracks carry electric and R&B instrumentals. The lyrics bring a comfortable relatability to listeners, as she sings about the anxiety that comes with relationships and the vulnerability in that.
