Grande’s newest album aptly named thank u, next is not bad, but certainly pales in comparison to her last album.

Let me start by saying I think Grande is an immensely talented vocalist and in just two short years has become nothing short of a superstar. I am a huge fan of her last album, Sweetener, which was largely produced by Pharrell Williams. thank u, next feels like an attempt at recreating the magic of Sweetener, but it falls flat. Sometimes personal tragedy, turmoil, and heartbreak can lead to some of the most beautiful music (see For Emma by Bon Iver) and Grande has experienced plenty of all three in the past year. However, the music does not reflect this in a way that is remotely thought-provoking; most of the lyrics throughout the album are contrived and devoid of any real meaning. Most of the songs on thank u, next are not bad, though. The two breakout singles from the album are absolute “bops”. TLDR: Despite the lackluster lyricism, this is a set of playful, uncontroversial, and cute pop songs. I’ll definitely keep listening, but I refuse to believe this is Grande at her best.

The good ones:

• “thank u, next” – Infectiously catchy, everything I want in a breakup song, a rare moment of self-reflection and maturity on the album, top five song of 2018
• “7 rings” – so this one obviously “draws inspiration” from other artists and songs, tbh I don’t really care because this song is so f**king good. Though it is not particularly lyrically strong, it’s soooo catchy and just a feel-good bop.
• “imagine” – keeps you engaged throughout with cool melodic and percussion changes, great way to set the stage for the album
• “bloodline” – a fun and easy listen.
• “fake smile” – unoriginal but relatable lyrics. another fun and easy listen.
• “break up with your girlfriend, i’m bored” – get ready to shout the lyrics in frat basements for the next month. another fun one.
• “needy” – this one grew on me. the dissonant chords create a cool dream-like effect on the song and the lyrics are actually pretty decent.

Overall rating: 7