Grammy's Album Of The Year Review: "Cuz I Love You" (Deluxe) - Lizzo

With the Grammy nominations out, its time for my "album of the year" reviews.  I score each track on whether it stands out, is merely okay, or is a miss. The final score will be out of a high of 100.

(All Rights to Nice Life/Atlantic records)

1) "Cuz I Love You"

Starting off with a power "big band" - esque intro. this gets the album starting off on a good footing. Lizzo's big vocals are on full display. "Cuz I Love You" sets the tone of the album.

2) "Like A Girl"

This track changes it up a bit. Lizzo is embracing her femininity; "only exes I care about are in my fucking chromosomes". She goes on to give shout-outs to icons like Chaka Khan, Lauryn Hill and Serena Williams. The bridge is particularly inspirational, with a refrain of "fight like a girl, cry like a girl. Do your thing, run the whole damn world". 

3) "Juice"

This is a more pop-sounding track. This is almost like a "born this way" for body positivity, with its feel-good nature.

4) "Soulmate"

"Soulmate" is more fast paced. Lizzo talks about breaking stereotypes, with how people used to say how you "better know how to look....how to cook". She's looking in the mirror and loving who she is. Overall, this is about how you have to love and be comfortable with yourself before being in any other type of committed relationship.

5) "Jerome"

This track has a slow-jam feel. Lizzo doesn't claim to be perfect, but she talks about how she deserves better; "love isn't easy, so I'll do the hardest part". 

6) "Cry Baby"

"Cry Baby" has more of a funk feel. Lizzo discusses how a past guy has made her now put her guards back up. 

7) "Tempo" (ft/ Missy Elliott)

There's just such a cool feel to "tempo", with a tight groove that works. Missy adds some interesting flavor.

8) "Exactly How I Feel" (ft/ Gucci Mane) 

This track carries over from "Tempo". Lizzo isn't afraid to show her emotions; "can't hold back my tears, that would be a crime". 

9) "Better In Color"

This acts as sort of a new generation's "Black Or White". The feel of this track feels a little out of place at this point in the album.

10) "Heaven Help Me"

"Heaven Help Me" starts off with an uptempo piano intro. With an overall nice flow, the chorus really pops.

11) "Lingerie"

With a slow groove, this is a really sultry track that works.

12) "Boys"

This has a funky, cool beat. "Boys" is about how Lizzo doesn't discriminate; "from the playboys, to the gay boys, go and slay boys, you my fave boys".

13) "Truth Hurts"

This track has become a Lizzo standard with its radio play, but its just such a fun track. Lizzo shows off her lyricism; "Best friend sat me down in the salon chair...shampoo press , get you out of my hair". 

14) "Water Me"

Lizzo closes out the deluxe album with this track on inspiration and self-improvement. 

What an album. Lizzo's prowess is on full display in this main introduction to the main stage. Nearly every track just clicks, and "Cuz I love You" as a whole is such a fun listen. (96.5)

"Cuz I Love You" (Deluxe) - Lizzo (96.5)

"Norman Fucking Rockwell" - Lana Del Rey (64.3)