With the Grammy nominations announced, its time for my annual review of every album of the year nominee. Track information in this review if courtesy of genius.com.
"Renaissance" - Beyonce
Parkwood/Colombia Records
1) "I'm That Girl"
With this opener, Beyonce is showing how she's still in the game. The track builds on itself.
2) "Cozy"
This acts as a third-person perspective on her triumphs & struggles; "Dancin' in the mirror, kiss my scars , Because I love what they made". There's a nice flow in the 2nd verse.
3) "Alien Superstar"
This is a song of self-appraisal; "I'm one of one, I'm number one, I'm the only one". There's a classic feel to this track, where everything just clicks together.
4) "Cuff It"
This deals with falling in love. The post-chorus provides a nice transition.
5) "Energy" ft/ Beam
This track provides some biting lyricism; "I just entered the country with derringers, 'Cause them Karens just turned into terrorists".
6) "Break My Soul"
This power track deals with perseverance; "I'm lookin' for motivation, I'm looking for a new foundation". This is such well-crafted.
7) "Church Girl"
With a soul beat, this is about trying to let up, and do the best you can.
8) "Plastic Off The Sofa"
With a slowed-down tempo, this is a perspective on a long-term relationship; "say, say you won't change. I love the little things that make you you...the rest of the world is strange, stay in our lane".
9) " Virgo's Groove"
A sensual track, I wish there were more dynamics and levels to this.
10) "Move" ft/ Grace Jones & Tens
With a dance beat, this is about breaking out.
11) "Heated"
This acts as a followup to "More".
12) " Thique"
This is partly about body positivity.
13) "All Up In Your Mind"
This sonically connects to "Thique". The writing is superb.
14) " America Has A Problem'
This is playing off a Kilo Ali track of the same name, as Beyonce is saying how addictive she is to her partner; "you can't get no higher than this, 'Cause love don't get no higher than this".
15) " Pure/Honey"
A multipart song, part 2 "Honey" feels a bit more cohesive.
16) "Summer Renaissance"
A tribute to Donna Summer, the bridge acts as a nice change of pace.
"Renaissance" is such a well-crafted album top to bottom. There are subtle variations throughout that provide a change of pace. You're always left wondering what Beyonce will do next. (93)
"Renaissance" - Beyonce: 93
"30"- Adele: 92
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