SZA SOS Deluxe: All 15 Tracks Ranked
SZA's SOS was already a massive success, but the deluxe edition added even more depth and complexity to an already phenomenal album. With five new tracks added to the original 23, ranking them all becomes a rewarding, if difficult, task. This ranking considers production quality, lyrical depth, vocal performance, and overall impact within the album's narrative. Let's dive in!
The Top Tier: Unmissable Gems
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Kill Bill: This track is a runaway hit for good reason. The catchy beat, SZA's potent vocals, and the darkly comedic lyrics about revenge make it an instant classic. It's easily one of the strongest tracks on the entire SOS project, deluxe or otherwise.
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Nobody Gets Me: A heartbreaking ballad that showcases SZA's vulnerability and incredible vocal range. The raw emotion in this track is palpable, making it deeply resonant with listeners.
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Conceited: This song oozes confidence and swagger. It's a fun, upbeat track that perfectly contrasts with some of the album's more melancholic moments. The production is slick, and SZA's delivery is impeccable.
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Blind: The soulful melody and introspective lyrics make this a standout. This track perfectly captures the feeling of being lost in a relationship, searching for answers you may never find.
The Mid-Tier: Solid Additions & Original Favorites
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Gone Girl (Deluxe): This is a powerful addition to the deluxe edition, showcasing a darker, more aggressive side of SZA’s artistry that complements the album's overall themes.
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Open Arms (Deluxe): This is a great example of SZA's ability to blend vulnerability and strength in her music. It’s a more subtle and nuanced track than some of the others but still impactful.
(The following rankings incorporate both the original and deluxe tracks, blending them seamlessly based on overall impact and quality)
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Shirt: This sultry track is a fan favorite, with its infectious beat and suggestive lyrics.
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Good Days: An upbeat, feel-good track that provides a much-needed moment of respite amongst the album's heavier themes.
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Love Language: This song explores the complexities of communication and connection in relationships.
The Lower Tier: Still Enjoyable, But Less Impactful
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F2F: This is a solid track, but it doesn't quite reach the heights of some of the others on the album.
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Smoking on my Ex Pack: A catchy tune but perhaps a little less substantial lyrically compared to others.
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I Hate U: This track benefits from its memorable chorus but could be seen as slightly less nuanced than some of the deeper cuts.
The Bottom Tier: Worth a Listen, But Not Essential
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Supermodel: A decent track, but it falls a bit short of the album's overall high standard.
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Ghost in the Machine (Deluxe): While a decent listen, this track doesn't quite hold up to the intensity of others within the overall project.
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Far: This concludes the album on a slightly less memorable note compared to other tracks.
Conclusion: A Deluxe Experience
The SOS Deluxe edition solidifies SZA's status as one of the most talented artists of her generation. While some might debate the order, the additions to the deluxe version only enhance the overall listening experience. Each track, even those lower on this list, contributes to the rich tapestry of emotions and soundscapes found within this remarkable album. This ranking is subjective, of course, so be sure to listen and form your own opinion! What are your top SOS tracks? Let us know in the comments!