Much-anticipated debut album, and fourth release overall, by T.D.E.’s first lady, SZA. Following Z, Ctrl speaks upon SZA’s perspective within previous relationships and the often relatable difficulties that many recognize. The tracks convey themes of love, hate, heartbreak, revenge, and self-perception. Somewhere between the house built by Frank Ocean’s monotone and falsetto and Migos’ signature trap cadences, SZA’s unique manipulation of language in performance moves far afield of clever euphemisms and the temporary high of rap entendres or gospel runs to focus on the deliberate deconstruction of words. Laced with 14 tracks in total, it features guest appearance from the likes of Kendrick Lamar, Travis Scott, James Fauntleroy and Isaiah Rashada. Production is handled by Antydote, Cam O’Bi, Bēkon, Carter Lang, Frank Dukes, Terrace Martin, and ThankGod4Cody among others.
