Album Review: Ariana Grande - "Eternal Sunshine"
Written by: Keyali Mikaela
Ariana Grande's "Eternal Sunshine" album encapsulates a vibrant and multifaceted musical journey, seamlessly blending elements of pop, R&B, and introspective balladry. Grande brings her eclectic influences to the forefront, creating a sonic landscape that is both refreshing and deeply personal.
Track-by-Track Analysis:
1. Intro (End of the World): Ariana Grande opens the album with a short yet impactful introduction, setting a contemplative tone for the musical journey ahead. The collaborative production by Grande, Shintaro Yasuda, Nick Lee, and Aaron Cheung crafts an atmospheric backdrop that invites listeners into the world of "Eternal Sunshine."
2. Bye: This track, written solely by Grande, offers a departure from conventional breakup anthems. With the guidance of Max Martin and Ilya Salmanzadeh, the song unfolds as a melodic farewell, showcasing Grande's ability to infuse emotion into her vocals while maintaining a catchy pop sensibility.
3. Don't Wanna Break Up Again: Grande continues to navigate the complexities of relationships with this Martin and Ilya-produced track. The song's upbeat tempo and relatable lyrics contribute to its infectious energy, making it a standout on the album.
4. Saturn Returns Interlude: A brief but impactful interlude featuring Diana Garland's spoken words, providing a celestial touch to the album. The collaborative efforts of Grande, Martin, Ilya, and Will Loftis create a moment of introspection within the overall narrative.
5. Eternal Sunshine: The title track, produced by Yasuda and David Park, stands out as a soulful ballad that showcases Grande's vocal prowess. The collaboration between Grande, Martin, Ilya, Yasuda, and Davidior results in a captivating piece that explores themes of self-discovery and growth.
6. Supernatural: Grande embraces dreamy and ethereal vibes in "Supernatural," produced by Oscar Görres. The track's otherworldly production, combined with Grande's emotive delivery, creates a mesmerizing listening experience.
7. True Story: With Martin at the helm, this track becomes a powerful anthem of resilience and self-empowerment. Grande's dynamic vocals, coupled with Martin's production, make "True Story" a standout moment on the album.
8. The Boy Is Mine: A captivating duet that injects playful energy into the album. Yasuda, Park, Davidior, and the collaborative efforts of Grande, Martin, and Ilya create a track that showcases Grande's versatility and ability to engage in dynamic collaborations.
9. Yes, And?: Grande explores a dynamic range of emotions in this track, produced by Martin and Ilya. The combination of poignant lyrics and a compelling melody results in a song that captures the essence of vulnerability and acceptance.
10. We Can't Be Friends (Wait for Your Love): Another collaboration with Martin and Ilya, this track stands out as a blend of pop and R&B elements. Grande's expressive vocals and the track's infectious rhythm contribute to its appeal.
11. I Wish I Hated You: Grande navigates the aftermath of a breakup in this introspective track. With Ilya's production, the song becomes a powerful expression of conflicting emotions, showcasing Grande's ability to convey raw feelings.
12. Imperfect for You: Grande, alongside Martin, Ilya, and Peter Kahm, presents a track that delves into self-acceptance and growth. The song's catchy melody and empowering message make it a standout on the album.
13. Ordinary Things (featuring Nonna): The album concludes with the heartfelt collaboration with Nonna. As a nod to ordinary yet precious moments, the track serves as a poignant finale, inviting reflection on life's simple joys.
Overall Impressions:
Ariana Grande's "Eternal Sunshine" album is a testament to her evolution as an artist. With a mix of infectious pop anthems, introspective ballads, and collaborative gems, the album offers a rich and diverse listening experience. Grande's vulnerability, powerful vocals, and eclectic musical influences shine through, making "Eternal Sunshine" a must-listen for fans and a testament to Grande's enduring influence in the world of contemporary music.
