In the whirlwind of 2020, where news cycles are a constant barrage of chaos and uncertainty, finding moments of peace and normalcy can feel like a rare luxury. Ariana Grande, no stranger to life’s tumultuous twists and turns, has navigated her share of highs and lows over the years. She has weathered it all with grace and resilience, from heartbreaks to triumphs. Stepping into a new chapter of her life, she’s dating someone new now – a real estate agent who doesn’t make the headlines as much, quite different from the buzz around her relationship with Pete Davidson during his time on Saturday Night Live.
Gone are the days of melancholic ballads lamenting past troubles; Grande’s music now reflects a newfound sense of happiness and contentment. Collaborating on upbeat tracks like “Stuck With You” with Justin Bieber, she embraces the joy of spending quality time with loved ones during lockdowns.
Her latest album, Positions, was released today. It takes listeners on a journey of passion and desire, aiming to claim the title of the year’s most seductive quarantine soundtrack. How does a superstar like Ariana Grande top one of pop history’s most daring break-up albums? Simple! She serves up a sexy, bold mix of seductive R&B ballads that ooze with playful vibes.
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It starts where Dangerous Woman‘s ‘Side to Side’ ended with tracks like “34+35” (a sly reference to 69) and “My Hair” (which serves as a detailed manual outlining the preferred way the vocalist desires to be embraced, hinting that perhaps, with the right moves, you could catch a glimpse of her without her iconic ponytail.) Both delve into intimate desires and fantasies, while “Love Language” celebrates the art of soothing a lover’s soul with sweet words.
In “Nasty,” Grande weaves a sultry tale of longing and anticipation, reminiscent of classic R&B tunes that yearn for a lover’s return. She strikes a delicate balance between playful flirtation and raw sensuality with each lyric. Ariana Grande smoothly transitions from seductive high notes to a refrain where she croons, “This pussy’s made for you.”
Grande effortlessly weaves pop, hip-hop, and R&B elements on the album’s sexier tracks, giving Cardi and Megan‘s “WAP” a more sensual, school-girl turn. “If I put it quite plainly / Just give me them babies.” “You know I keep it squeaky.” “I’m a leave it open like a door, come inside it / Even though I’m wifey you can hit it like a sidechick,” she coos on ’34+35.’
The album’s production features a mix of guitars and string arrangements that add depth and color to the tracks. Grande’s vocal runs shine on each song, showcasing her versatility and artistry. Whether belting out high notes or delivering smooth melodies, Grande’s voice is a true standout on “Positions.”
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While “Positions” may not signal a dramatic shift in Grande’s musical style, it solidifies her powerhouse vocalist and versatile artist status. With tracks like “My Hair” and “Love Language,” Grande pays homage to ’90s jazz rap and house music, demonstrating her ability to navigate different musical landscapes easily.
Overall, “Positions,” in all its horny, naughty glory, is a testament to Grande’s evolution as an artist and her ability to captivate audiences with her talent and boldness. It’s a must-listen for fans looking for a fresh take on modern pop music. It offers a mix of familiar dance-pop vibes and fresh experimentation. While some tracks like “Motive” may feel a bit formulaic, echoing her past hits, the album showcases the singer’s evolution and willingness to push boundaries.
With a talented team that includes Victoria Monét, Tayla Parx, and Tommy Brown, Grande crafts catchy and well-crafted songs that, while safe at times, still manage to captivate listeners. The album teeters between the known and the unknown, seamlessly blending elements of pop, R&B, and hip-hop that only Grande can pull off.
While the album may not reach its full potential, there’s no denying Grande’s artistry and ability to navigate the ever-changing music landscape. Positions is a solid addition to her discography, hinting at the brilliance she’s capable of achieving in the future.
