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Ctrl by SZA

Ctrl

SZA

2017
2.93
Rating
22067
Votes
1
12%
2
23%
3
33%
4
23%
5
9%
Distribution
Genres: Hip Hop, Soul Styles: Contemporary Rb

Reviews (page 2 of 7)

lowk might be perfect

SZA is a gem. This record has everything. R&B, rap, soul, and dream pop. Her voice is visceral, the lyrics are poignant, and all of the beats and backing tracks are really cool. I really like the indie-esque dream pop nature of this record. Its easy to vibe with and kind of creates a platform to lay other genres on top of, which she obviously does throughout the record. I hadn't spent much time with SZA (outside of her work with Kendrick) but I was really blown away by this record. Really cool all around.

Je ne connaissais pas du tout, je vais mettre un bon 5 car c’est une femme + un style qui change parmi tout ce qu’on a entendu jusqu’à présent + j’aime bien la vibe (la voix fait penser à celle de Riri). Je vais aller découvrir davantage !

very good

9/10 – Great

She SZA on my Ctrl till I 5-star

Weirdly so nostalgic for this album. SZA is a genius. She’s added such a messy quirky sexy contradictory realness to R&B in the 2010s-today.

This is one of my favorite albums. SZA is one of the most talented singers ever. And I think this is her phone. Every song feels truly special, they all work together to tell a story, the lyrics are biting, the melodies are infectious, the production is insane. I have no.

yall miserable asf on here

good, 10/10.

super cute, super comfort

Fair fucks

Messy feelings, soft edges, and emotional honesty without a filter. Rating: 4.8/5 Short Review: This album feels like someone thinking out loud and not editing the parts that make them look insecure. It is warm, vulnerable, self-aware, and beautifully imperfect. Favorite Track: Supermodel. Bitter, reflective, and painfully human.

This really wasn't my genre, and having only heard of SZA from her Super Bowl halftime performance last year, I wasn't really expecting much from this album. But I was pleasantly surprised, because I found the music here very good and varied and I loved listening to it. The sketches (particularly the badly-dubbed Kung Fu movie sketch) were just pointless and I hated them and I've never understood why rappers like to include that shit in albums, but whatever, I still loved it. I listened to it twice and was almost ready to go a third time. Five stars.

Perfect

This is a great album!

One of my favorite albums. Was so happy this was on here!

GETTING CAUGHT UP! honestly one of the closest things to a perfect album I've seen on here so far. yes, I've loves this album for a while, but still. while songs like Go Gina, Wavy, and Pretty Little Birds are pretty flop, there are some GEMS on here. Supermodel, crazy. Drew Barrymore, crazy. Love Galore, crazy. GARDEN: CRAZY. do do you even know I'm alive???? do do you even know I I ????? Do Do???

Hit su hit

WE love sza

Phenomenal

This is great music for sex, and that alone makes it a five-star album. Got to try it out this weekend with wifey.

Absolutely marvellous

I think this is a phenomenal album. It's creative, original, catchy, and extremely personal. Stories of life, love, and the desire for acceptance abound in this album, and Sza's voice complements perfectly. I'd say it's a 4.5 rating, but I'll give it the half star bump because Sza is one of my son's favorite artists.

super bon, tranquille, bons featurings

Generational talent.

Favorite tracks: Drew Barrymore, Prom, Love Galore, Broken Clocks

29 is still 20 Somethings, right? I still belt every lyric when I play this album, it’s Solana’s best work by far. Lord knows how many times I’ve played “Love Galore” and “The Weekend” on repeat

She is!!

Drew Barrymore is a standout

This album was a big deal when it came out. I think it falls in line with a style of RnB that is really specific to the 2010s like the music of frank ocean or the weeknd. The album is great, SZA's voice is generational. The hits are fantastic. This album is very unified directionally which I think is great for a debut to establish the SZA sound. While this album is simple, things in SZA's personal life, seem to not be with SZA's online presence eclipsing her musical output. While it is nice to imagine artists as singularly focused on capturing magic in music, SZA. Being a SZA fan following this album included an 8 year wait for SOS. A wait so long I would say that it would be impossible for the listener, as well as the music scene not to grow and change within it. And that's what happened. This album is a bit of a time capsule. I was graduating high school and leaving my friends most of whom I haven't reconnected with to this day. That summer, those graduation parties, and listening to tracks off this album (among others) is a time and place that I will never be able to go back to. And listening to this reminds me of that. It's between a 4 and a 5.

Wikipedia said she was known for her diaristic lyrics and I got excited. Then I found out that means "having the nature or style of a diary" and I was pretty let down. Despite the lack of diarhea this album is a refreshing treat. Musically it's soothing and her voice is amazing. I was never bored and was left wanting more.

Amazing, I love this album. Perfect first choice. Fave songs: Normal Girl, Drew Barrymore, Doves in the Wind

Been loving this album since it came out. I don't think I've ever listened to it in order, all the way through. So I'm excited to look at it as a full project instead of individual songs.

perfect debut album.

Ecstatic to see this on the list. There’s too much I want to say about an album that may be in my top 10 of all time. Ctrl is a modern r&b classic. SZA is so sincere with her insecurities and is front to back baring her soul to the world while singing these crazy catchy melodies. There are so many moments that are pure “wow I’m obsessed with this part” like the drums on Drew Barrymore, how SZA glides into Go Gina, Travis’ YAHs in Love Galore, and even when setting the record for the number of pussies said in a song the “ya know Jen-nay almost gave it all up for em” in Doves in the Wind is fucking electric. Coming out of college I connected with this album so much and there are so many lyrics I related to that these moments are crystallized in this album, it makes every listen like a little time capsule. I could go on and on but I’ll end here, good lord what an album

Am I waaaarm enough for ya.... Reminds me of summer 2017 -- just graduated high school, the world ahead of me. Experiencing new feelings, perfectly punctuated by SZA

One of the best R&B records of our time. It’s so much like Frank Ocean at times that I question if he helped write it.

In no particular order: The level of vulnerability and insecurity here is painful to listen to The end of “Anything”!! And “Pretty Little Birds” One of the best we’ve listened to so far

I love this album. Soulful, smooth, sexy. A bit of fun.

Rich, gorgeous pop and R&B that is at once stunningly crafted, thoughtfully personal, and has bangers throughout. It’s rare for me to want to dive deeper on a pop artist because it’s not usually my cup of tea but this album made me an instant fan. Zero complaints on this one, want to listen to more.

The album was interesting and the lyrics were on point also she has a unique style of singing

First of all, I’m not a fan of this type of music. Women’s hip hop? Or rap pop? I don’t know. I then have to compare SZA to Rihanna who sits atop the woman’s alter of music. After those stipulations are weighed, I can feather my way through the unwanted feelings and assess this album. You know what? I’m glad I listened. The music is great, the beats hit. Sza’s delivery isn’t even great. Sort of a Jamaican sound vocally. There’s samples! I never hate that. As much as i wanted to fake listen to this album, I’m glad I didn’t let my music snob attitude win. My biggest disappointment is that I found the best song to be the 3rd song, which seems to be a constant for me. If Rihanna is the Queen, at this point, SZA warms the Throne when Rihanna leaves to go to the bathroom. Choice cut: Doves in the Wind

Nu angre æ litt på at æ aldri hørte på det her albumet da æ la inn en «burde lytte på det her»-stjerne da det kom i 2017, for æ likte det jo skikkelig godt. Veldig chill, med teksta æ av og til hekte mæ fast i, deilig.

Absolute banger, maybe in my top 10 ever

The best R&B album of the 2010s, next to Blonde

This album raised me

Drew Barrymore

such a vibey and enjoyable album that switches through different styles of RnB and remains romantic and sultry while still maintain transitions and creative takes on psychedelic influences

Not exactly my go-to music genre, but has all the hallmarks of a five star album. Inventive, sprawling, and no filler. I had heard SOS but never any of the songs on this album. I shall return to this album.

Voice of a generation

A beautiful album. SZA has some of the best vocals I've ever heard and the production is top notch. There's so much groove, so much soul, so much great flow in the music. It's a lovely experience.

This woman can sing Trump tweets and it would sound good.

An absolute modern classic of an album. SZA's sound is so unique and singular, it's immediately recognizable in the best way. Everything here is executed so well - from the production, to the performance, to the songwriting and lyrics. SZA is making raw, emotional music where she reflects on her own life, and it somehow stands the test of time. So, it doesn't surprise me at all that the angry old white dudes of this platform think it's "trashy". If your takeaway of this record is that she's making "heavily auto-tuned trap beats about pussy and booty", you're a fucking idiot. Go read the lyrics, go read a book, go listen to something other than The Beatles. Nerd. 10/10

Masterpiece, no notes. Love SZA and this album so much, her voice is so good and lyrically it’s very honest. 5/5 Fav song: Drew Barrymore

perfection

Never heard of her before but this was a great album

I like SZA's sound. She combines so many genres with the combination of her voice's tonality creates this neo-soul, ethereal experience. Also, the lyrics are well written and are a great portrayal of introspection.

That album flew by, I enjoyed every track. She's raw and honest delivering her barest thoughts with the sweetest voice.

## In-Depth Review of SZA's *Ctrl* SZA's debut album, *Ctrl*, released on June 9, 2017, is a landmark in modern R&B. It blends raw vulnerability with polished production, exploring themes of self-discovery, love, insecurity, and empowerment. The album’s influence on contemporary music is undeniable, as it redefined the boundaries of alternative R&B while resonating deeply with millennial audiences. ### **Themes and Lyrics** Thematically, *Ctrl* is a deeply introspective work that examines control—or the lack thereof—in various aspects of life. SZA reflects on relationships, self-worth, and personal growth with unflinching honesty. The lyrics are confessional and conversational, often feeling like diary entries. Tracks like "Drew Barrymore" delve into insecurities and self-doubt, while "Normal Girl" reveals a longing to fit societal molds of perfection. On "20 Something," SZA captures the uncertainty and existential dread of young adulthood with poignant simplicity[1][2][6]. Songs such as "The Weekend" tackle themes of infidelity and unconventional relationships with a frankness that challenges traditional norms. Meanwhile, "Supermodel" opens the album with a biting narrative about betrayal and self-reliance, setting the tone for the emotional journey that follows[3][4]. The inclusion of voiceovers from SZA's mother adds another layer of intimacy and wisdom to the album[2]. ### **Music and Production** Musically, *Ctrl* is rooted in alternative R&B but incorporates elements of neo-soul, hip-hop, pop, and even indie rock. The production is minimalist yet textured, allowing SZA's vocals to take center stage. Producers like ThankGod4Cody and Carter Lang crafted a soundscape that balances live instrumentation with electronic beats[1][2]. Tracks like "Supermodel" feature stripped-down arrangements—primarily guitar and subtle percussion—while songs like "Love Galore" (featuring Travis Scott) lean into bass-heavy hip-hop influences[3][4]. The production avoids overwhelming complexity, instead creating space for SZA's voice to shine. Her vocal performance is versatile, effortlessly shifting between husky tones and ethereal falsettos. Songs like "Pretty Little Birds" showcase her range alongside jazzy undertones, while tracks such as "Broken Clocks" employ boom-bap rhythms reminiscent of classic hip-hop[5][8]. ### **Highlights** - **"Supermodel":** A raw acoustic opener that sets the tone for the album's introspection. - **"Love Galore":** A sultry collaboration with Travis Scott that explores complicated relationships. - **"The Weekend":** A standout track addressing polyamorous dynamics with candid lyricism. - **"Drew Barrymore":** A vulnerable exploration of self-esteem issues. - **"20 Something":** A heartfelt closer that captures the anxieties of young adulthood. ### **Influence and Legacy** *Ctrl* has had a profound impact on modern R&B. Its blend of vulnerability and genre-defying production inspired a wave of artists to embrace authenticity in their music. The album’s themes resonated particularly with millennial women navigating similar struggles in relationships and self-discovery[6][7]. Critics have credited *Ctrl* with redefining the sound of contemporary R&B by merging introspective storytelling with accessible melodies[8][9]. Beyond its musical influence, *Ctrl* also sparked conversations about representation in music. SZA’s willingness to embrace imperfection—both lyrically and vocally—challenged traditional standards of beauty and success in the industry[8]. ### **Pros** 1. **Lyrical Depth:** SZA's honest and relatable storytelling connects deeply with listeners. 2. **Versatile Vocals:** Her ability to convey emotion through dynamic vocal performances is a highlight. 3. **Innovative Production:** The fusion of live instrumentation with electronic elements creates a unique soundscape. 4. **Cohesive Themes:** The album’s exploration of control ties its diverse tracks together seamlessly. 5. **Cultural Impact:** *Ctrl* redefined modern R&B and influenced a generation of artists. ### **Cons** 1. **Repetitive Themes:** Some critics argue that the focus on relationships can feel one-dimensional at times[4]. 2. **Safe Production Choices:** While cohesive, certain tracks lack the experimental edge present in her earlier work[4]. 3. **Limited Range in Topics:** The album primarily revolves around romantic relationships and personal insecurities, leaving little room for broader themes. ### **Conclusion** SZA’s *Ctrl* is an emotionally resonant masterpiece that captures the complexities of modern love and identity. Its confessional lyrics, innovative production, and cultural significance make it a standout debut that continues to influence R&B years after its release. While it has minor shortcomings in thematic diversity and experimental risks, these are outweighed by its strengths in storytelling and emotional depth.

Excellent

i lovee sza my favs off this album were ofc "broken clocks" and then I rly liked "drew barrymore"

Honestly this has been one of the stickiest R&B/pop albums of the past decade for me. Just grew and grew and grew. Supermodel not just a supreme album opener, but a supreme song - Anything a close second

This is another case of something I’m only vaguely familiar with, so I didn’t really know what to expect. WOW this is not what I expected at all. It’s so cool. The vocalist is super incredible, an amazing range of expression. The music and production reminds me of trip hop more than anything. It’s like Portishead just a shade less cinematic and a bit more hip hop. Super catchy music, very soulful vocals, trip hoppy production, hip hop beats, and just an amazing air of cool. Not sure how all that coolness works with the album being called control. This feels loose and intuitive, not overly done and controlled. Another thing I really like is how the vocals are used in a variety of roles. I mean sometimes you get the vocals clean as a “lead”. Other times they’re treated with delay to be used as something more of a rhythm instrument. Sometimes it’s jammy and jazzy, other times pop. This is just beautiful. I also really like how sparse the production is. It allows for really great dynamics within the songs and the album as a whole. The album closer “20 something” is a real treat. Not exactly folk but it got a folksy guitar, not really soul but it got soulful singing, just something unique and beautiful. This is an incredible album and an easy five star.

Gorgeous. Could have done without some of the grosser guest spots, but every note out of SZA's mouth was perfect

Very cool

Un nuevo álbum clásico, SZA hizo un gran debut y tan solo este álbum la consolidó como una de las más grandes estrellas pop de esta década, un logro increíble como cantante de R&B

This was a banger of an album, i had no idea.

Rare to find albums in this era that are no-skip from start to finish. Just a modern masterpiece that gets better with every listen. My favorite is "Go Gina."

Now here is an an album that is newer and better than so many on here and totally worth the inclusion. I had listened to SZAs mixtape prior to this and thought it was pretty good but this really cemented her as a phenom (funny because some of these British bands it took them 5-10 terrible albums to get there and she did it in one). I remember this was an album I downloaded to listen to on a plane ride right around when it came out. I'm still trying to figure out where her new album stacks up with this one because it is equally as good. Kept: Love Galore, Drew Barrymore, The Weekend, Go Gina, and 20 Something. Also kudos to her releasing her deluxe album 5 years later vs the following week. I'm sure that really messed with her streams but she seems like someone who doesn't need that validation.

So glad this was included. I became a fan of SZA when she first signed with TDE in 2014, at that time I was obsessed with the label and trusted them with anyone. Her debut tape Z was really solid, but I had no idea what was coming. Everything leveled up on this project: songwriting, vocal range, production, you name it. This album is extremely personal and vulnerable, it's a kind of R&B that steps aside from the usual tropes to self-examine and self-actualize. Almost every song on here I love, but to me none are as brilliant as "20 Something." Such a beautiful ode to growing up. SZA has one of my favorite voices in the history of ever, and to date this is still her masterpiece. I'm not sure if I've realized it before now, but yeah, this is a 10/10 album. Favorite tracks: 20 Something, Garden, Supermodel, Doves in the Wind, Love Galore, Broken Clocks. Album art: SZA sitting in the grass among a heap of junk computers. Youth decaying. It's a classic and iconic already. 5/5

One of the few albums on this list I’ve listened to before so it gets points for that. Lot of good songs but definitely liked the first half more. Production is good. I didn’t realize how mid the Kendrick song is.

Musically, there's a lot of stuff that is starting to come out now that sounds exactly like this. It's really really good stuff. I'm not entirely on board with some of the content of the songs, but I also understand what's she's trying to communicate, and why she chose to communicate it in that way. If that makes sense. (looking at you Doves in the Wing). As a 29-year old, I really resonated with 20 Something. Honestly, though, an incredible album. The vulgarity and explicit-ness was a little much on a couple songs, but otherwise no notes from me. Favorite Song(s): Prom, Anything, 20 Something

Outstanding!!

if i had any suspicions that many of this site's users were dull, pretentious men, then the reviews for this album certainly would have done nothing to confirm them! 👍🏻

If I hadn't been so busy catching up on things after a long weekend, I would have pulled out my vinyl copy. Still a great revisit to such a fantastic album! Love that this made the list.

ahhhh yes. thats my friend

Some immediate thoughts while listening: Female Frank Ocean Perfectly sums up mid-2010 millennial dating/hook-up/Tinder vibes For any hot mess "in their feelings" As a mid-30 year old man, this is just old enough for me to have some nostalgia for the era, where I too was in my feelings.

I don't think I have listened to all of these songs before- good ass album.

SZA is the best!

SZA - Ctrl Debut album for SZA. Listening to this, I understand the hype and praise. I don't know why I never listened to this album. R & B, trap, and indie rolled into one to make this amazing album. I'm going to have to find time to listen to her new album soon! 5/5

Such an amazing vocal performance by SZA. She conveys so much emotion in her voice. She also has a lot of range. I remember when this album came out listening to it on repeat. She also pulls some huge hip hop features like Travis Scott, Isaiah Rashad, and Kendrick Lamar. Just a great blend of hip hop, RnB, and pop. I think my favorite track is Broken Clocks although the whole thing is good front to back.

One of my top ten. A song for every mood. SZA is an unparalleled RnB artist and I love pretty much any project she puts out.

Never had listened to it. Very good and consistent. Defining for the genre

Good album. Fun and unique and provocative.

Glad the list listened to my review from yesterday and gave me more 2010s music I’m a sucker for except it’s low fi r&b instead of indie rock. This particular itch hasn’t been scratched since way back when I got heaux tales like 2 years ago and while nothing on this album beats price tags, I think it’s a stronger album from end to end and also has standouts like drew barrymore and go Gina.

Personally, I believe R&B was on the decline and SZA went so fucking hard on bring it back. This album is as iconic on the first listen as it will be on my last. Vocals are beautiful. Instrumentation is the perfect amount of experimental. Lyrics are exactly what’s needed. Nothing to not like here. 5/5

Gefällt mir gut. Sehr abwechslungsreiches Album

This is what I listen to every time I'm on an airplane. For the longest time I had no idea what the second half of the album sounded like because I would always fall asleep. Every time I revisit I find a new thing to like.

nice bit of neo soul

Nice flow, good album.

SZA made a new fan. She has such a great voice and her lyrics are funny, personal and sometimes dark/sarcastic. Loved the vibey beats in the background. Listened to it the whole day!

What a debut album! Not only does SZA bring it in the solo tracks, but also makes her presence felt alongside other great collaborators. Ctrl really \"is craft in action, a uniquely excellent album from a uniquely excellent artist.\"

A modern classic tbh

🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥

A debut album this good? Was added to all my playlists in 2017.

-CTRLLLLL YESSSS -not only have i listened to this album, but i LOVEEEEE IT -love sza so MUCH! -supermodel always makes me 😭 -god. doves in the WIND! DUDE! is so insane (one of my favorites) -drew barrymore. love of my life. -sza really made a beautiful insane album and its just out here dude -prom is one of the songs i listen to the least on this album but its still really good -the weekend is genuinely also one of my favorites -garden (say it like dat) is probably one of my least favorites but like Barely -her grandmas voice throughout the album ❤️ -BROKEN CLOCKSSSSS -i haven’t listened to anything a lot but its again. REALLY GOOD. -wavy interlude is the only song im not into in some way -NORMAL GIRL SUPREMACY ❗️❗️❗️❗️ -20 something too fucking relatable -this album is one of few albums i have listened to that deserve to be on this list -easy 5 stars

Oozing talent.

Holy shit the racism in the reviews for this album. Some of you people should think twice about the things you think to say when a black woman’s singing.

I probably would’ve given this an 8 but just reading the reviews on this site made me so annoyed I’m bumping up the score. I mean, “Why I can't stay alone just by myself? Wish I was comfortable just with myself but I need you,” almost made me cry this morning. 9/10

SZA!!! i love this album

10/10!

really good

EXCELLENT

I have been sleeping on SZA and this album was phenomenal. Shame on me for not listening to more of her stuff sooner!

Really liked this!?

🎶✨

Wow! Normalmente este tipo de música no es mi estilo, pero este disco me atrapó desde el inicio.

So good. I knew a lot of these songs because they were hits 10 years ago and have since become modern classics. I wish I'd listened to the whole album 10 years ago! Beautiful

me ha gustado pese al género

Don't understand the hate on here for this -- it's perfectly fine. It's just made by a black woman for black women. Loosen up, fellas.

Lyrically, I'm not the target audience. Musically, this album is great. Great melodies and sexy grooves. 4 stars.

This is interesting, original and dirty!

This was great. Fun beats. Shitty men. Great women.

Love this album but it definitely is a bit bloated and loses quality towards the back half

I have not heard this before. Every time I see her name I think they’re talking about some long lost Wu Tang member which always throws me off. I think I’ve heard a few of these songs but I’m not sure, a lot of recent r&b has this sound and from what I understand it’s all influenced by her and this album. The instrumentation and beats are really good and she’s got a great voice. There are a few songs where some obvious autotune has been added for no reason, which is really unfortunate because she’s got a great voice and doesn’t need that thrown in. I guess it’s being used as an effect like the flange and echo that’s on a lot of backing vocals, but it’s a terrible sound and throws a plastic synthetic feel over everything. That’s my only complaint, everything else about this record is great.

her voice is incredible. good instrumentation, too, though i wish the lyrics were still a little sharper. i'm rounding up though because it's great to see this on the list :)

Didnt expect to like it but its good

What a pleasant surprise! Introspective and quite honestly cutting lyrics over some of the finest R&B production I've heard... this album was a definite success for me.

Some fantastic neo-soul with phenomenal production. Listening to it now it kind of struck me how much of a time capsule it is for the late 2010s, a peak in the R&B space. You've got some Travis Scott, some DAMN.-era Kendrick, some traces of Blonde... and SZA, of course, a whole beast of her own, especially at that period. LOVE her inclusion in the list! She approaches modern troubles in such a raw and vulnerable way, a relatability that you might simply not find in, say, a 1970s rock album. That's what makes this such a standout gem for me; and yes, some of those troubles include sex -- the mere mention of which seemingly makes many a reviewer on this site disintegrate on the spot. Also I love the decision of closing with 20 Something. I can't articulate it perfectly, but the album ending on a bittersweet note with a song about the uncertainty/anxiety of getting older really struck me. Very strong 4! Standouts: Love Galore • Doves In The Wind • Garden (Say It Like Dat) • Normal Girl • Pretty Little Birds • 20 Something

Pretty good!

Sza cool

SZA's vocals are definitely the focal point of the album. She creates a sexual and calm tone for the entirety of the project, making it very soothing and easy to listen. The Deluxe is also worth a listen

Unusual 4 with no saved songs for me. Really good album with excellent vocals and production, but none of the songs really grabbed me.

bruh i remember listening to this whole album back in 2022, really liked got 3 quarters in and realized i was listening on shuffle. and just didn't feel like going back and relistening in order niggas on this site so prudish i hate. oh no shes singing about sex and saying the n word. whys it so hard for you pussies to catch a vibe damn pisses me off

Some of the lyrics are grating on my old man ears, but the beat, tune and general vibes make this deserving a place on this list

wow, all these reviews definitely do not pass the vibe check. guys, relax a little

Really really good Dont know what I was expecting, despite how famous she is, im not sure i could have named a song But this is great. Production is great, voice is great, collabs are great. Good 4

Nice to have some balance to the creepy male misogynists that fill up a large portion of this list. Woman can have a voice too, and that voice can be beautiful and powerful too.

Delightful

Not for me, still good 4/5

I’m a sucker for anything in the Kendrick universe, and this is one of my favourites. The lyrics are sharp - sometimes funny, sometimes poignant and it just sounds good front to back. I’ve listened to it all the way through a couple times every summer since it came out.

Something more modern (still almost 10 years old, but I count it as a win)! Supermodel was a nice start to the album. It was actually quite introspective. Going into Love Galore, it fell into a few hip hop tropes at the start, but continued on to actually be quite a good listen. Travis Scott’s feature fit in well, and while I’m not a huge fan of this genre, I thought it was really good. Szas voice is fantastic as always. You know, I think I praised the album too soon. Doves in the wind talking about nothing but “getting/giving pussy”. I get the idea of the track, but I think there are probably better ways to get the point across. To move on, Drew Barrymore was actually great. I loved the focus on her vocals and some of the lyrics were really good. The Prom was great as well. This was followed by the Weekend, which I liked less, but still was alright. I didn’t love Go Gina. I really liked the music of Garden. The lyrics of broken clocks were SO good. It felt so raw and open. Anything had a good beat to it. Normal girl and Pretty little birds were again, so lyrically good and introspective. As a 20-something, 20 something was a great way to end this album. So good. Overall, this album surprised me a lot. I expected a lot of shallow but somewhat fun pop music. Not a bunch of beautiful introspective tracks. There was some of that shallowness to it in places, but Sza really surprised me. 4/5 ⭐️ 138/1089

Every time that I tell someone that I am a Kendrick fan, their first question is how I feel about SZA. I have long been embarrassed to say that I actually had no opinions on her because I was still quite unfamiliar. Having now heard this record, I can say that my opinion of her is VERY high, and I am very excited to seem more projects moving forward. The huge synth soundscapes on this record paired with some of the funniest and most vulnerable lyrics I have ever seen combine to form a hilarious, horny, devastating peak into the mind of the artist that serves as a clear inspiration to Doechii, whom I also quite enjoy. The Kendrick comparisons are very founded, but I was shocked to see that this record came out a full year BEFORE TPAB, which means that they clearly owe a lot to one another across the aisle. I will be listening to this one many times again. Standout Tracks: Supermodel, Drew Barrymore, The Weekend, Normal Girl

Classicssssssssssssss

I found myself liking this way more than I thought I would. Also sexual as hell throughout. The features arent too shabby either (outside Travis Scott anyway). I can see why this was one of her most popular releases. Its dark but in a comforting way, also her vocals are top notch throughout. 4.5 if I could!

One of my favourite artists! I first fell in love with this album because of "The Weekend". Then I listened to it in full and liked a lot of the songs. I'm not really sure how to describe this kind of R&B but Ctrl is committed to an introspective, laid-back vibe. It was trip hop for me before I even heard of the genre. It does overstay its welcome a bit with the last few songs. However, I still really liked the end result. With songs like Drew Barrymore and Garden, anyone can relate to inadequate for someone you like. Much prefer SOS than this album though. (4-4.5)

A listen that is both comforting and provocative, with an angelic voice and God Tier bass lines.

holy sheet - i hadnt made time for this previously. i am so glad i had time to listen to this twice, back to back, without interruption. it is an incredible, cohesive album and reminds me a lot of Solange's A Seat at the Table.

Really solid and consistent from start to finish

Will this work sustain? Idk. But I enjoyed it. 3.5.

As an album experience it’s a lot of slow jams, but when they’re this quality you can’t really complain. 3.5 but giving it a 4 as 3 is way too harsh.

Another album on this list I was lucky enough to be around for the release and hype for. Almost a decade later and I'm still impressed by what SZA did here. She took the R&B genre that was going through changes at the time and left her own unique stamp on it that inspired many artists to run with her sound, although not many could do it as well as her.

Pretty bangin. I liked the somg about pussy

I really wnjoyed this album. I was somewhat familiar with SZA because I have listened toher most recent album but had never heard this before. I enjoyed the variety of singing styles and think the opening and closing songs are the standouts on the album.

I really enjoyed this album. I only know of Sza from being featured on other’s songs. I’m surprised by all the negative reviews.

“Pussy like doves in the wind”

A really good album, I liked Supermodel, Drew Barrymore and 20 Something the most.

I really enjoyed this. It was better than I expected an I would likely listen to this again and recommend to others as well.

SZA got popular during the time where I wasn't really paying attention to rap at all, but I can definitely see how she became a big name in the first place. While this isn't necessarily my kind of rap, I did enjoy this album a lot. It's interesting that she apparently claimed this album had some trap influences, which isn't a genre I like, but I also didn't think this sounded like typical trap.

Très bonne découverte, on a rarement des albums aussi contemporains!

This was actually pretty good. Pop R&B, but never obnoxious. Mellow, easy, good for background music. It’s got a good dose of that 20-teens era of no-music music. But she’s a good singer, and there’s enough actual music to keep it from feeling too empty. On second listen, I like it more. Several saves and only one skip. ⭐

Crisp, laid-back alt R&B that you can get lost in. While this was pretty typical for this sound at the time, it stands out for how stark it is. Often tracks consistent of a just a guitar loop and drums, creating pleasant sounds but letting SZA control the songs. She does this expertly, deftly jumping between high and low notes and floating between different vocal melodies with ease; those melodies are what give shape to the more formless instrumentals. Some of the songs like "Drew Barrymore" and "Prom" are more straight-forward bangers, but she's excellent on those as well. The lyrics can be confident but she also shows a lot of vulnerability on songs like "Normal Girl" and "20 Something." Not over-produced and down-to-earth, this is some of the best alt R&B you'll hear.

Really good LP

the reviews ive seen told me that nobody on this site fucking understand gen Z music. and as a gen z i complain. and this is hella good like believe me ive said that im a gen z myself im the last of the gen z i am fucking born in 2009 so of course i know what is quality gen z music! 4/5

i was late to sza so i’m a bigger fan of kill bill but i really like this album

Some really good songs are here with the slow backdrop of R&B to lay the foundation for her vocals to take front and center. Feels like a lot of intentionality in the composition and enough style changes from track to track to keep the whole thing interesting, Broken Clocks, Pretty Little Birds and Supermodel are standouts.

I'm not as much in the loop when it comes to modern pop music, but this is just a great R&B album. Her best album so far. Favorite track: Doves In The Wind

Very pleasing vocal tone. Lyrics that most women will relate to. The smoother R&B tracks were really nice. Some veered into a more electronic mode which messed up the vibe for me a bit. But overall a good find in a genre I don’t listen to very often. 3.5 stars rounding up because I do think it’s well done even if it isn’t to my personal taste.

9 years………

maybe not very varied, but I do like her sound and her voice

The more I listened the more I liked. It's a very cohesive album with great delivery. I don't get up and think "oh yeah, lets pump some neosoul" but perhaps I should?

de altíssimo nível? sonoridade gostosa e bem produzido

que album gostosinho hein, putz. r&b de ótima qualidade, uns beat bão demais, ce ta doido (((novamente o usuário médio desse site se mostra completamente ignorante. vi uma review 1 star de um mano falano "um lixo, imagina se a gente mandasse esse album pros et escutar". aí entrei no perfil dele e O ALBUM FAVORITO DELE DA LISTA EH ARISE DO SEPULTURA. bizarro demais como que esses mano tem as cara de falar merda de album bom que nem esse aqui. fiquei puto pqp)))

I really liked the album, R&B, I’ve downloaded to listen again.

Really enjoyed this album, some great collaborations too.

Me surpreendeu positivamente. Só havia SZA colaborando com outros artistas. O disco é bem divertido e empolgante. QoA Cloudscape.

This album was big when I was in college so it’s kind of nostalgic to listen to!

I can’t believe this album is almost 10 years old. “Supermodel” has stayed in my regular rotation, but otherwise I hadn’t listened to this in full since my college days. SZA will go on to make more astonishing work, but I’d forgotten what a solid front-to-back listen this is; aside from Travis Scott’s dearth of personality on “Love Galore”, this is packed with charisma and great performances. She set the benchmark for modern pop R&B. The more time that passes between this album’s release and the current day, the more obvious its influence becomes. Meticulously and lovingly crafted.

Pretty good once you become fluent in SZA-lese

Chill and comforting vibes. Favorite tracks : Doves in the Wind, Prom

a bit too long, but this is a near classic

I liked it, challenge me abit. My daughter loved it (1 yo). She would have given it 5 stars. Middle ground, 4.

really nice

# SZA - CTRL Very strong right from the start, carried by nearly voice alone, with crunchy guitar chord stabs, and a strumming groove that crouches with patient anger. The album's short, but nonetheless substantial introduction "Supermodel" shows the listener (at least) two crucial things about SZA and CTRL that continue through the album's 14 tracks: a dominant, sandy-soft voice with distinct and agile delivery, as well as risk-taking and inventive, yet still mostly smooth and inviting neo-soul production. The music is grabbing, but rife with moments of conscious restraint to the service of letting SZA's voice do the work. There is a recurring lyrical theme that recurs throughout the album of the singer oscillating between addressing her self-doubts about things like body image, work, and to most interesting effect, fucking around with people she admits she shouldn't be. A main theme "The Weekend" and visited on "Love Galore" as well as "Supermodel", a reversal of doubt where our protagonist expresses some degree of reflective hesitation or regret before turning the song on us to bask in her confidence and flaunt that ultimately her choices are rooted in self-empowerment. The delivery is convincing. I'm drawn in by SZAs vulnerability and then rooting for her before I even realize that I'm along for the ride. CTRL weaves a strong spell up through "Broken Clocks". On "Anything", a bold but ultimately distracting production choice breaks the spell. The starkly overdriven 808 kick dominates the entire song. The single production misstep loses a lot of steam for me, and the ultimate effect is just boredom and distinct "miss" feeling from "Wavy" and "Normal Girl". The former is labeled an "interlude", but with a decent vocal feature from James Fauntleroy, and fun call-and-response play with SZA. The cavalier indecision of the title, and the half-baked quality of the track feels like a studio outtake or a false start that could have been something more. "Normal Girl", compared to the swagger/doubt contrasts that worked so well in the early album, while welcome in its sensitivity, feels like mopey teen drama as stays planted firmly in the realm of doubt and questioning, and never resolves how to be a normal girl. The final two songs pull out from the slump. The trumpet and guest vocals from Isaiah Rashad, both set over a stark beat powerfully sound like the blue morning sky is secretly a domed ice cathedral that is both beautiful and entrapping at the same time. For being the newest album yet encountered in this listening/writing project, and still nearly 10 years old, the question of graceful aging and timelessness in music can start to be laid apparent. For SZA's debut album, I feel a strong possibility the strong moves made here will come back and be even more appreciated in decades to come.

Control? Ctrl? Regardless, it was actually quite a nice little outing. Plenty of melody and attitude. Don't know how I felt about that song about female genitals though... 4 Stars.

This album is like lying in bed the morning after having a one night stand with the cool chick at school. You’re pretty stoked, but you’re also nervous cos if you didn’t bring your a-game you know she’s gonna tell everyone and you’re gonna be shamed in maths class.

I'd actually never heard this album in full before, but I found it pretty enjoyable. I feel like SZA's almost like a female Frank Ocean -- bringing a lot of hip-hop style to R&B. Highlights for me were "Drew Barrymore" and "Prom", and "Supermodel". 4 stars.

What a voice, what a record. Drew Barrymore is a particularly great track.

I liked it more than I thought I would.

I like SZA’s dreamy style of R&B. She has a bouncy flow to her singing that makes everything sound like a hook. She’s got great instincts for what makes a good pop song, but there’s also something jazzy about the way she riffs. It’s a great, seductive combination. Excellent album. Very easy to vibe out to.

Excellent album by an excellent artist. This is a funny one where I like the lower playcount songs more than the big popular bangers. "Love Galore" ft. Travis Scott is just OK to me, where "Doves in the Wind" ft. Kendrick Lamar is far better (with the latter having only a quarter of the play count amount as the former as per Spotify). I do personally love Kendrick though so maybe there's some bias there, but this idea permeates throughout the rest of the album. I do find "Doves in the Wind" interesting, it's funny how many times they can say "pussy" (quick count and it's 26). I don't mind vulgarities in my day to day and I like them in art but at some point there might be another more poetic word or some alternative before I think "alright i get the point". Just a solid record. SZA is great!

This album came out a decade ago this year and it holds up so well as SZAs masterpiece. Genuinely a classic of modern pop and rnb music.

Loved the personal touches with the phone calls. Kendrick Lamar was featured!

I lose ctrl when I listen to the album, absolute bangers the entire album

Not sure if the stronger tracks are frontloaded or if I just got tired of the pace and repetition. Not normally my genre admittedly.

I immediately gave this a second listen and then put Love Galore on repeat. I enjoyed this a lot.

I like it! Glad I listened, SZA is an artist my 15 year old daughter likes and seemed like something I might enjoy and I did. Sexy beats. Lyrics on Doves in the Wind 😳- wowza! Really liked Prom. Started to all sound the same towards the end but overall really enjoyed this one!

I by no means dislike SZA, but I haven't ever been able to get fully on the hype train. This album was lauded when it first came out, and while it is indeed fine, I never was able to come around to seeing it as anything more than just "fine." I think the front 4 songs are really solid. Supermodel is an understated opener with slowly strummed guitars showcasing her confident voice; Love Galore is a silky smooth follow-up; Doves in the Wind taps on kung-fu Kenny for a solid feature dedicated to one thing: pussy; and Drew Barrymore is just a pleasant vibey song. The middle sags a little bit to me (though The Weekend is solid). I like the production on Normal Girl a lot -- feels adjacent to Currents era Tame Impala. Closer 20 Something brings things full circle with another stripped down strummed guitar track -- hard to argue she doesn't have a great voice. For me this does just enough for a 4. Even at its most forgettable, I enjoy the songs.

Never listened to SZA and while R&B isn't my usual thing, I really enjoyed this ride. Has everything right in a mainstream album with excellent production, good flow, and great features. Probably won't come back to this one, but it felt good to listen to. Soft 4.

I know SZA because my kids listen to her (yes they are older so kids don't chastise me for allowing under age kids listen to this). I've never ventured into more than her top tracks. This is a great album. Some good beats, great melodies and she has a good voice. She does a good live show.

Very solid indeed - 4/5

I’m not a huge fan of R&B—I generally find it a little too vibe-y and aimless for my taste. With that said, I think Ctrl by SZA is quite clearly excellent. She sounds great, her lyric writing is solid, and there are some really interesting musical and production ideas throughout this album. So though it’s not something I’m inclined to listen to again, I can’t deny its quality.

I've heard of her. I know what she brings truly never sat to listen to her album or songs. This is good. I have not want to change it.

good background music

I thought this was great. Musically really interesting, drawing on a range of genres, and lyrically smart and fun. Plus she has a great voice, very engaging.

I don't know SZA at all, so I wasn't sure what to expect. I liked this album quite a bit for a genre I don't spend much time with and it's one I definitely see me coming back to and appreciating more. 3.75/5

yeah i already like this :')

really solid would rate 4.5 if I could

Man, maybe I do like R&B.

Chameleonic, charming. Ctrl is a special record; confident in its brilliance while racked with self doubt. SZA is a modern day confessional poet, disarming to an extent that may even be considered insidious (like, who’s really being manipulated here?). The songs are Clams Casino smooth productions that dare you to think of them as disposable – only to pop up in whatever quiet moments you thought you had in a day. I’m glad I let this record grow on me, but must now stop before it overcomes me. (Just a little bit.)

the debut album of currently popular and universally praised r&b artist SZA. this is a very raw, yet stylish and contemporary r&b album. i really really like her vocal performances and the sorta retro-kitschy synthy sound that a lot of songs have. some of the material is a little lost on me though... and i really don't need the autotune. especially the guy singing... this is the sort of album that makes you feel like lying on the grass, thinking about all the things you've done and the people you've interacted with.

Always feels weird having an album less than 10 years old on this list. At any rate, SZA has a stellar voice, and Prom is a beautiful song

Loved the candid lyrics. I've heard and liked this one when it came out. Gifted songwriter

I am brought back to my time in high school when this came out. It was one of the newly released albums at the time that defined a large part of my adolescence. Ctrl is such an evocative peak into the world of a young artist. It is a stripped back and brutally honest album with some truly infectious melodies and production. I remember following the TDE label closely at the time and was excited to see them branch out with this one. Now SZA is a true pop star. Amazing album.

J’ai été agréablement surprise par cette artiste, que je n’avais jamais pris le temps de découvrir avant!

Probably the biggest artist of recent times that I've yet to give a proper listen to, and I wish I had done sooner. These R&B/modern soul hip-hop beats are really nice, and the production elevates them to a new level. I wasn't sold on her vocals to begin with, but slowly but surely they grew on me. Perhaps disappointed by the features on the album, nor does it seem like this is her best work, but a very nice album nonetheless. I also find it hilarious that I gave The Wall a 2 earlier and this a 4. Many on here would be livid with that

Ctrl sza “That was my greatest fear that if I lost control or did not have control, things would just, you know I would be fatal.” As someone whose philosophies often reflect my need to have control, this album speaks to me in certain ways. It experiments with the different ways to have, and to lose control. As much as we as humans like control, that's not often how things work. Sometimes we obtain control, and sometimes the opposing side gets it. Over the textured detailed instrumentals, her stream of consciousness lyrics explore themes of self confidence, insecurity, sexuality, adulting, and so much more.

Like that new take on rnb from her

Interesting and I liked it more than I thought I would

I liked her voice and the melodies. I wasn’t a huge fan of the songwriting, but oh well.

A really cool listen. And it's very cool to hear more women in hip-hop.

Really good production and I'd never heard any of these songs. Felt very erotic in a good way and the R&B complimented it really well. Particularly liked Prom, The Weekend and 20 Something.

A few songs really good, the rest not quite my thing but still nice.

Much better than I remember...pretty solid R&B. 3.5/5

Really good, just not quite enough for a 5.

I really enjoyed this, definitely going to check her other music out

Don't think I've ever heard of SZA before but I enjoyed this album

I liked it a lot

Super love this album! It was very close to five stars, but the later tracks started to feel like filler. Still it all makes me feel so sexy. I'm melting like butter over here.

When's the last time I got an album from the late 2010s? Oh, jeez... March 1st of this year with Golden Hour? Wow. There are not many albums on this last from the 2010s onward. What's even worse is that a good number of them just have no business being on this list at all. Fortunately for me today, this isn't one of them. I mean, SZA is a pretty huge name in music these days. I think it's only fair to give her an album on this list, and Ctrl is the only one that could've been included when this book was last updated, so I guess it's the choice. I've gotta say. It's a pretty good choice. I get it! I get why SZA is as popular as she is! This album's good. Quite good, in fact. I really liked it. It's a very modern album. This is the kind of album that just screams late 2010s. But like, in a good way. The production is nice. Certainly of its time, but it's not "overproduced trash" as some may call it. There are actually some songs that feel kind of sparse in a way. The opener "Supermodel" is pretty cool because of this. SZA's vocals are certainly interesting. I'd say she's got a good voice. There's a reason why she's the go-to "female singer feature" on recent hip-hop songs. Speaking of features, this album's got some good ones. You know me. You've got a Kendrick feature on your album? I'm sold. Quite notably, "Love Galore" is the only appearance of Travis Scott on this entire album list. Say what you will about him as a person or even a rapper, but I feel like his influence should probably warrant having an album on this list. I haven't heard any of his albums for myself, but I've heard that Rodeo is apparently really good, so maybe that could've been on here instead of Hookworms or whatever. Back to Ctrl, the writing seems to be a fairly off-putting aspect for a number of people based on this website's reviews. I don't have a problem with it myself. I think the things that this album has to say are absolutely worth saying. I like the fact that this album displays a good deal of emotional vulnerability that makes the album relatable. Songs like "Normal Girl" and "Drew Barrymore" excel in this regard, and they're great because of it. The album's a normal length. There aren't any annoying skits or interludes (emphasis on annoying). This is a nice album. I hope SZA continues to see a fruitful career. It sure seems like that'll be the case. Light 4/5.

Love Galore Drew Barrymore The Weekend

This is a good album. I'm not sure if I'll listen again and again but it is solid

Rating: 8/10 one of the best and influential modern r&b albums imo, the songs are emotional and longing as they cover everything about a young woman’s experience with relationships, SZA’s lyrics for someone who is at the top of the charts in her genre are SAD, veering towards insecurity and self-loathing rather than hedonism. It’s a nice touch that she has her mom’s calls recorded throughout to guide her through this period and these experiences

I feel like after "Z" this was the natural progression of her sound - SZA has such lovely vocals and paired with well composed instrumentals it makes for a very cohesive album. R&B needed something fresh and SZA gave it. Its poetic, with the lyrics sounding like a message left in a voicemail inbox - but there's still an ability to sing along. Speaking of "Z" there was some electronic influence on that EP that I wish other R&B artists would take note of. Tracks like "Julia" on Z became "Drew Barrymore." (Can you tell I really liked Z) Her growth as an artist is a pleasure to listen to.

SZA displays a great level of vulnerability and conceptuality on this album, and even if I don't personally relate to her lyrics, it's hard to deny their quality. The album follows an interesting narrative. At the start, SZA portrays herself as very introspective and aware of her insecurities. It starts off with a very raw and emotional ballad, where she showcases a deep level of vulnerability, recognizing wrong decisions from her dating life but still being stuck in this loop of repeating them. The quite minimal arrangements and strong vocal lines add sheer emotional power to the song and it's difficult not to feel her words. A great deal of the first half of the album deals in the topics of infidelity and toxic relationships, recognizing that she is just a side girl for the guy she's writing about. Eventually, SZA comes to a realization that that's not what she wants, which is a sign of self-reflection and emotional maturity that I really admire. On Love Galore, the 2nd song on the album, SZA reflects over some of the shit relationships from the past and how despite the toxicity you can still end up gravitating towards the other person. However, I think she does it in a pretty badass way. The song has an interesting psychedelic twist to the production and Travis actually matches the vibe very well. Doves in the Wind is really amazing too. It's a very sensual and sexy song with some woozy textures and some cool hip hop insipred drums. Lyrically it focuses on how there is more to love than just sex, but again, she does it in a pretty witty way. Kendrick also lays a very focused verse with some very strong sung bars. I like it as it's not a style he does too often. The themes of insecurity and questioning your self worth come back on Drew Barrymore, despite of the cozy and warm vibe of the song. It's got an absolutely stellar melody and chorus that almost distract from the raw emotional vulnerability, especially in the 2nd verse. Prom is another touching moment where she talks about maturing and self-development, mainly being scared of not growing as fast as her guy. The song is wrapped in this very summery sound with some gorgeous strings and a slight disco twist. The Weekend has one of the juiciest beats with this super thick bassline that I really like, and is yet another moment of realization that she's being played. She describes herself as the 'weekend girl', with the other girl being on the main plan. Go Gina and Garden contribute more to the themes of insecurity and unsatisfaction of the first half of the album, but I do think both could have used stronger hooks and melodies. I do really like how the bass on Garden is a bit more agressive tho. Following that is the song Broken Clocks, which is my favorite here and serves as the centerpiece of the album. Firstly, it works as a reflection of time passing and how it can be easy to get worked into the chaos of life, with everything moving super fast. The song emphasizes how it's good to take life day by day and try to make small improvements every day, which is a healthy perspective that I really like and relate to. She also uses this song to reflect on the balance between ger work life and love life, ultimately recognizing that the flings she described before were not worth the hussle. Admittedly, I do think the album gets a little weaker afterwards, with a song like Anything being bold and interesting but not executed as well as it could have. The Wavy interlude could have been a full song, as it has some great sounds, but I also think it could have been just SZA on it. What I do like is the reflective nature of some of those songs. On Normal Girl she realizes that instead of worthless hookups she would like an actual healthy relationship, which makes it a pretty wholesome moment. The album does a full circle moment with the final song - 20 Something, which much like the first one is a raw, acoustic ballad, but this time touching very different themes. She recognizes that her life is unorganized and imperfect, but ultimately isn't that what you're 20s are for? In the end, she recognizes that it's ok this way. It's a truly great closer to a truly great album that has a lot to give, both sonically and lyrically, as I think her approach to r&b is pretty fresh. It's an album I really enjoyed diving into, as indicated by the length of the review.

Pretty catch, but not an all-timer

мне очень понравилось, не смотря на то что в альбоме ни одного белого исполнителя. хотя пожалуй за это минус балл

Great vocals and great song writing, I particularly think it picks up with Drew Barrymore, the best song here, but I also really enjoyed Prom and Broken Clocks. Maybe not one I'll revisit often, but certainly a worthwhile listen. 4 Stars.

I had only heard SZA before on that song she did with Doja Cat. I’m really glad this album was on this list. It’s great!

Solid album, I enjoyed listening to this record back on its original release year, and it has aged pretty well.

Great body, great voice, great album🔥

We continue to suspend our disbelief that someone as sexy as SZA could possibly have been dogged just like the rest of us. Sharp and shimmering— ✅✅✅ Supermodel ✅✅✅ Love Galore ✅✅✅✅ Drew Barrymore ✅✅✅ The Weekend

Love it, it's been a while since a full listen, but perfect.

Soft voice Like the "inteviews" parts Simple and chill

Do you know, it's pretty good. The music is s lot about a life and culture that's foreign in location and time for me, but the music is interesting to listen to.

forgot how strong this record's opener is, but also how tonally different it is from some of the later tracks. really great instrumentation, as sparse as it is compared to SZA's contemporaries. good shit all around; I really don't think there are any skips here. not a huge fan of Travis Scott but whatever, SZA is obviously the star of the show. I guess he's allowed to say a few words. I will never get tired of broken clocks no matter how often it's played. if you hate that song you're an idiot. it's so good. I feel like that meme of spongebob floating in the air with wired headphones when I listen to the beginning of pretty little bird. that reverb is great and with a pair of great headphones, that song is extra good. probably not a perfect album, but for pretty damn close.

+: Love Galore, The Weekend, Drew Barrymore, Broken Clocks, Anything, Wavy - should have been longer -: Supermodel, Go Gina, Normal Girl Well produced, a few moments of too much noise. Thematically aligned, major focus on womanhood, although difficult at times to understand SZA. Kendrick would kill a performative male competition with that verse. I don’t know shit about reviewing so we’ll see if I’m “on track”. I’ve always gone back to Love Galore and Broken Clocks, but I’m not sure I’d want to go back cover to cover again.

I’ve loved this album since it released, it was nice to have a reason to revisit it! On a different note, there’s a noticeable shift in tone of reviews when I see a black artist on this website, especially black women. Reviews with little critical value other than “trash” “not for me” “sings about _____ too much”. It’s discouraging. If I can listen to some Irish folk album or ANOTHER Elvis Costello album, you can spend 40 minutes with a black person and give a real, critical review on their work. This project is supposed to be about broadening horizons, not cowering at the sight or sound of a person who isn’t like you.

sza and kendrick said some of y’all don’t deserve pussy and you losers took it to heart.

Nice to have something recent. The production was the standout aspect for me too. Im not the target audience but i did enjoy Prom, normal girl, 20 something. Lyrics came across very honest. Will add this to the give another listen pile, it could grow on me over time.

Honestly some of the features weren't my favorite but the rest of the album was good listening.

not to bad

More than meets the eye.

Very surprised by this one. Great voice, good lyrics and some great guest stars

I found this to be way more enjoyable than I first thought it would be.

This was really good! SZA always has some great stuff.

Great alternative R&B. I’ve heard of SZA, but never gave her a deep listen. I enjoyed this album.

Yeah, i liked this!

So much good stuff. Just electric and velvety.

love it

4 out of 5 Not too bad. Some slower songs but I liked the collaborations. Pretty good R&B.

Pretty damn good

I've always wanted to believe that this is just one of those albums that's impossible to hate, and yet you lot still manage to prove me otherwise. Like it's literally just a super chill RnB album to stick on in the background, obviously nothing mind blowing but it's just so easy to listen to.

Good from start to finish. No low spots.

Favorite Track: Drew Barrymore

Pretty cool.

This was an album that grew on me while I listened to it. I saved "Normal Girl," "Broken Clocks" and "Prom." I'd rate it 3.5 so I'm rounding up. :)

Cheeks. The good kind.

She's so good she makes me want to like this genre of music. Far and away the best at what she does for this type of R&B Best Song: Doves in the Wind Rating: 8/10 Stars: 4/5

Não esperava que eu fosse gostar deste álbum. Pensando sobre, estava tudo alinhado pra eu não gostar dele, é um álbum de R&B feminino da década de 2010. O último disco assim que peguei foi um da Solange e eu detestei-o, uma das menores notas que dei até agora. Então comecei a ouvir este álbum bem cético, mas já na primeira faixa percebi que seria diferente. O que aconteceu que fez eu gostar desse disco? Justamente o fato que ele foi pensado como um álbum. A coesão entre as faixas, a duração temperada, a consistência na produção e na performance da SZA, a moderação nos features… São todos fatores que fazem muita falta em outros álbuns da década de 2010 e 2020. Fico feliz de ouvir uma artista contemporânea que ainda entende a arte de fazer um álbum verdadeiramente bom. Além disso, lendo o artigo da Wikipedia sobre Ctrl, notei outro detalhe importante que auxiliou no meu agrado das canções aqui. “The album's recording process was described as being analog and featured the unplugging and re-plugging of wires in order to create the desired sound.”. Produção analógica, isso faz toda a diferença no som! Claro que, liricamente, é difícil pra mim relatar com o que ela canta. Eu não tenho os mesmos problemas dela, como precisar dividir um homem com outra mulher. Mas apesar disso, eu sinto a paixão na voz dela, ela é uma cantora maravilhosa. E já elogiei a produção do disco, é impecável. Já falei em outra review que não me importo muito com conteúdo lírico, e isso me ajuda a dar uma nota maior para este álbum. Curiosamente, a única parte que me incomodou nesse álbum foi o feature do Kendrick Lamar, achei bem fraco e irritante o verso dele, estragou aquela faixa. 4/5

Amazing voice SZA incorporating lots of different genre and it worked. Great album

Listenable and fresh and mostly fun R&B/neo-soul, with good guests and cameos and the semi/quasi-outrageous lyrics on "Doves in the Wind" are very much true in one's experience.

Very pleasant with a few standouts. Drew Barrymore was my fav song.

Хорошая музыка

It alr8ght

Not quite a 5 but almost there. I enjoyed this a lot, and glad it's on the list. 4/5

zašto znam skoro svaku pjesmu

SZA is one of the more recent mainstream artists I've slowly gotten on board with. My exposure first started with her collaboration with Kendrick Lamar on "All the Stars" done for the Black Panther film soundtrack, followed by her feature on Doja Cat's "Kiss Me More", culminating in my listening to her second album, SOS. I consider that album good, albeit a bit bloated, which is probably not helped by the deluxe reissue that came out last year. I was curious about how her major label debut sounded, given what has come after. With all that said, how does Ctrl hold up? Well, I consider it a solid alternative R&B record, complete with organic production, muted guitars, and subtle movements throughout that made the whole experience come off lush. Never once between the instrumentals and the guest features did I feel SZA was being overpowered, which is very much needed when this album ends up as an extended diary sprawl through her insecurities with these shifting relationships. The raw emotional core in her lyrics tended to be her second-guessing herself, wondering if she's even deserving of true love beyond the sex. From the opening "Supermodel" through cuts like "Drew Barrymore", "Prom", and "Garden (Say It Like Dat)", she dissects various instances of uncertainty in herself as she navigates through her love life. The men she comes across along the way also don't help matters in making her, from Travis Scott's more restrained hedonism on "Love Galore", to Kendrick Lamar's highlight of male obsession and entitlement while also experiencing insecurities of their own on "Doves in the Wind", to the buckling relationship with James Fauntleroy on "Wavy (Interlude)", to Isaiah Rashad's exhausted deliverance of a truth that he hopes could satisfy on "Pretty Little Birds". There are fleeting moments of acceptance or found clarity in the breakdown of her life, such as on the multiple partners' roles with this one guy on "The Weekend", the recognition of her romance conflicting with her work schedule on "Broken Clocks", and the full dive into a fling even while questioning the partner on "Anything". This leads up to the punch of "Normal Girl" in the acceptance of her differences from what is perceived as "normal" for a partner. Is it all a bit reckless? Sure, but in no way does SZA glorify this lifestyle, and if anything, she acknowledges that it's a common struggle on the closer "20 Something" where she prays for other people who may go through a similar song and dance. It's all about finding that control in the chaos of love, and that feels pretty enriching. Okay, so what holds me back from outright calling this album great? Well, I have to admit, my problem lies with SZA herself. At this stage, it's clear that she is still developing as a songwriter, and there were a fair number of instances throughout the record where the writing can feel barebones, including multiple cases of repetition and rhyming a phrase with itself. Not helping matters are moments where SZA sounded like she was slurring her words a bit, which ends up making the final sound come off sloppier than it needed to be. But at the end of the day, Ctrl is still a solid debut for her. I feel SZA's capable of making a great record, but until then, this was still a treat.

Très chouette, j’ai aime l’énergie

Bra sång, gillar hennes röst. Riktigt bra RnB-album. Drew Barrymore och ett par till sticker ut som favoriter. Inte min favoritgenre, men kan absolut tänka mig att ha skivan på i bakgrunden.

Nice beats, fairly low key but effective, and with a hint of dreamsynth sprinkled in for a unique and pleasant sound. Might be a 3.5 for me, so it gets rounded up.

Really like this album; it dropped when I was 17 so hearing it again got me in the feels. 3.5/5

I liked this a lot. It did dip slightly in the middle but SZA pulled it back with the last two tracks.

There is some pretty inspired work here, starting around Broken Clocks onward, where I really was able to appreciate this album for it's R&B sounds. The problem is that I like to share music with family and friends, and Supermodel and Doves In The Wind are songa I absolutely would be embaressed showing someone else - theyre just far too vulgar. I feel the same way about some of the rap albums I've had here. And it's a shame because the aforementioned Broken Clocks, Anything, Normal Girl, and a couple others are really great songs with some really great dreampop/ R&B fusion. Overall, still generally impressed by SZA here, just turned off by some of the louder pieces of the album. Also, it's a bit long.

I’ve heard a few songs by SZA, and they were alright, but I had no idea how I’d feel about an entire album from her. This was absolutely amazing. A lot of the more recent albums on the list I don’t feel deserve their place on it, but this absolutely does. I vibed with the whole thing, and “Drew Barrymore” is going to be on repeat for my for a long time. Such a great album, and I’m so glad for this list making me listen to it because I wouldn’t have otherwise.

I hadn't heard of SZA until this album; mostly thanks to Kendrick. Her singing is incredible and unique despite comparisons to amazing singers of the previous generation like Rihanna and Beyonce.

A familiar album for me, decent at parts and very good at others. This was one of the first albums i ever listened to i really like this album but i think that’s might be biased, but some songs just aren’t good. 3.5/5(4/5)

Fav: Doves In The Wind (feat. Kendrick Lamar) Least Fav: Pretty Little Birds (feat. Isaiah Rashad) Just goes to show that modern music is in fact good, and is much better than what many would have you believe

I love sza. Dreamy bangers

I like this project best when it gets me to listen to albums that I would not otherwise seek out on my own. And while I understand, I am joining the zeitgeist in this opinion, I really like this album. I’ve heard several songs by SZA that I have liked before realizing the artist. But this is my first time listening to a complete album. Really enjoyed it. Hip-hop and R&B are in good hands.

Virkelig et post-Frank Ocean album!

Arte pura

Very nice!

That was a surprise. Usually I don't enjoy music like this but this is actually great. Nothing I would listen with passion, but great for a background music for chill or driving

She has a beautiful voice and evokes emotion well. I liked Prom, and the extra energy in that song. A lot of it was very similar (might be the genre). But I do appreciate the lyrics (most of the time), it really embodies being insecure, unsure and trying to live up to the expectations of the world for women and the impossible expectations. Some seem simple and immature but there is a lot of truth in them (I don't always shave my legs) and what the overall message is for females. Doves in the Wind was not my favorite, I don't hate the sentiment of the song, just feel like that kind of language doesn't help offset the concerns she poses throughout the rest of the album.

Beautiful voice, nice songs. But I got kind of bored.

Listening to this while doing a walk literally elevated every step I did, especially the second part of the album.

I really do like SZA. Her dreamy vocals just draw me in. I think I prefer her followup record but this has some great stuff. 4/5