Music is crammed. But in a good way. Overflowing with singers, songwriters, and producers can feel overwhelming to fans looking to spice up their library. I listen to a lot of music. I absolutely need music in my life. I grew up as a fangirl of the music my mom treasured the most; Motown. Then, I discovered my own appetite that made it simply glorious to be a kid. Music has this unique command to pull me up or yank me away from a dark space. Music can be so many different things to so many people. While some tunes are warm, airy, and organic, others have a sullen style that peaks through their lyrics.
Nestled halfway through this elevated sound and eclectic style is a ten-year veteran with the release of her highly anticipated studio album, Venus. Zara Larsson continues solidifying her position as one of modern pop’s most essential stars with wildly provocative stories and lyrics to match. Zara is an intoxicating hodgepodge of Kate Bush with a sprinkle of Rihanna. Venus represents a new chapter in Larsson’s career, showcasing her growth as a woman, an artist and her willingness to experiment and do the unexpected, like co-directing her music video for “You Love Who You Love.”
While Venus offers diverse sounds highlighting Larsson’s versatility as a performer, it is fully loaded with infectious dance-pop anthems, like the ’80s girl-powered inspired “Can’t Tame Her.” Zara even belts out, “She just wants to have fun,” a possible nod to the incredible Cyndi Lauper. With a few soulful ballads, the album also delves into the impact of love on other aspects of life, such as family dynamics in the heartfelt tune “On My Love,” a collab with David Guetta. “Soundtrack” stands out to me because it is a melody influenced by the themes of wasted youth and the sorrow of not going back. Music lovers throughout have a special soundtrack that defines our summer; every feeling, argument, and inevitable heartbreak. Zara is a creative force encouraging her listeners to move forward in this song. No matter how hard we try, how loud we sing, we cannot go back. And that is okay.
Throughout Venus, Zara Larsson collaborates with a diverse range of artists and producers, including Guetta, each bringing their unique perspective to the album. From top-tier songwriters to emerging talents, the collaborations on Venus adds depth and dimension to Larsson’s already impressive sound.