SZA’s SOS Deluxe: Lana arrives with tempered expectations, serving as an expansion of her acclaimed SOS album rather than a standalone leap forward. Originally teased as a set of entirely new tracks, the project ultimately reflects her earlier description as a compilation of outtakes and a few fresh songs. With 15 tracks, the release provides an intimate extension of her musical universe.
The collection leans into mellow grooves and understated instrumentation, often echoing the dreamy tones of SOS’s standout ballads. Themes of love, longing, and resilience dominate the lyrics, with occasional sharp edges and bold assertions. Among the highlights, “Crybaby” stands out with its lilting melody and a soaring vocal finish, perfectly suited to her previous album’s vibe, even if its familiarity explains why it didn’t make the original cut.
“BMF” — widely circulated online as “Boy From South Detroit” — reimagines the melody of “Girl From Ipanema” with a cheeky lyrical twist, while “Kitchen” delivers an evocative ballad. The final track, “Saturn,” is arguably the most polished piece, showcasing SZA’s signature melodic sophistication with a delicate, piano-driven hook.
The deluxe album is comparable to her 2017 Ctrl expansion, blending unreleased tracks with songs that had been unofficially circulating. It’s a satisfying addition to her discography but doesn’t signal a major shift in her artistic journey. Fans hoping for another chart-topping anthem like “Kill Bill” may not find it here, though the release does include notable moments, such as “Drive,” with its assertive and memorable lyricism.
The much-discussed collaboration with Kendrick Lamar, “30 for 30,” is an anticipated highlight. While Lamar’s contributions remain lyrically strong, the song itself falls short of their past collaborations, feeling less dynamic compared to their work on Lamar’s GNX.
Overall, SOS Deluxe: Lana offers fans a welcome gift during the holiday season. While it doesn’t mark a bold new direction, it enriches her existing catalog and sets the stage for her next phase, which may take time to unfold. Until then, these songs provide a comforting holdover for listeners eager for more of SZA’s distinctive sound.
