waterbendernatsu

Olivia's third offering has all the markings of a classic-in-the-making. Very rarely am I drawn to a young pop artist's work in the ways Olivia's album has not only grabbed but maintained my attention for the past five days. From the effervescent and breakneck pace of the opening tracks (pop perfection) to the somber notes of "cigarette smoke" that close such a tumultuous chapter of her life, I was in awe of her artistry, knack for melodies and ear-worms, and engrossing storytelling. What a work, what a story, what a generational talent. My current ranking: stupid song - 10/10 the cure - 10/10 maggots for brains - 10/10 cigarette smoke - 9.5/10 my way - 9/10 u + me = <3 - 8.5/10 begged - 8.5/10 drop dead - 8.5/10 what is wrong with me - 8.5/10 less - 8/10 honeybee - 8/10 purple - 7/10 expectations - 6.5/10 Overall: 8.6/10

This song has grown on me tremendously. Ariana has honed and refined her artistry in ways that feel organic and whether you like the song or not, you cannot deny that her stamp is on the song—there is no other artist who could release this type of song. This is definitively Ariana. I'm also impressed that Ariana subverted expectations by utilizing her lower register. As many have opined, this is such a departure from the vocal-heavy lead singles she has been known for. As for the chart battle... when they go low... go lower.