December Drops: A review of the latest album releases

Writer Mitchell Eng’s thoughts on recent releases by SZA, Hozier, and Rosé.

Mitchell Eng, Web Sports Editor • Feb 4, 2025

rosie – Rosé, December 6, 2024

When Rosé teased rosie as a personal album, I was expecting a deeper glimpse into who she really is beyond BLACKPINK’s often overshadowing glitz and glamour. However, the album falls short of delivering that depth. While the lead single “APT.” showcases her unique vocals and an infectious pop-rock vibe, much of the album feels uninspired – recycling familiar pop sounds without offering anything new. “Two Years” is a generic soft pop track while “Drinks or Coffee” is a subpar attempt at R&B, with an instrumental and lyrics that are mediocre at best. It’s as if she’s experimenting with different genres, but none of them stick or feel deeply connected to her identity as an artist.

As much as I wanted to connect with Rosé through this project, the lyrics don’t reveal much about her. They come across as generic, featuring overplayed heartbreak themes without diving into anything particularly raw or authentic. While rosie is a safe listen, I wanted more of that raw, real emotion that would have made it a standout moment in her solo career. For BLACKPINK fans, it’s a good entry to her discography, but it still doesn’t feel like the album I was hoping for from someone with so much talent.

Unreal Unearth: Unending – Hozier, December 6, 2024

(Note: Unreal Unearth: Unending is the deluxe release of Hozier’s 2023 album Unreal Unearth. I will review all songs, but focus primarily on the 2024 additions.)

Hozier’s Unreal Unearth: Unending is an album packed with extraordinary highs and rough lows. Tracks like “Butchered Tongue” and “Francesca” delve into interesting themes such as loss, taking lyrical inspiration from mythology and Dante’s Inferno. However, other tracks, such as “Damage Gets Done” and “I, Carrion (Icarian)”, feel like forced attempts at exploring wrath and temptation with lines that don’t offer much depth. One standout from the 2024 deluxe release is the opener “Nobody’s Soldier”. Filled with grand moments, the track features a fast-paced instrumental and an extremely catchy chorus. But, as the rest of the album plays out, it becomes clear that Hozier is unable to keep the same energy throughout the album.

Overall, Unreal Unearth: Unending is a collection that struggles to land as a cohesive work. While some standout tracks highlight Hozier’s strength as a writer and singer, much of the album feels scattered, caused by an overly ambitious goal of exploring as many themes as possible. It’s clear that Hozier had an artistic vision for this album, but I find it too messy to enjoy fully.

SOS Deluxe: Lana – SZA, December 20, 2024

(Note: Lana is the deluxe release of SZA’s 2022 album SOS. I will review all songs, but focus primarily on the 2024 additions.)

SZA’s SOS Deluxe: Lana delivers some of the most beautiful songs of her career so far, but not as many of the “hits” found on previous albums, including the original SOS. While the 2022 release of SOS sent several songs high up the charts, such as “Saturn,” “Kill Bill,” and “Open Arms,” Lana offers a more subtle and refined view into SZA’s life. In one of my favorite songs, “My Turn,” SZA reflects on a former relationship where she felt deceived by their partner’s false persona. The biggest hit of Lana, “30 For 30,” is a ballad where SZA and Kendrick Lamar exchange verses of singing and rapping about themes of self-worth and authenticity, fully embracing personal empowerment.

Overall, I think Lana feels like a more introspective chapter in SZA’s career, offering a deeper look into her emotional state. While it doesn’t have as many high-octane moments as SOS, the refined sound and personal storytelling make it a rewarding listen for those who appreciate her vulnerability. For me, it’s not just about the hits—it’s about how SZA continues to evolve and push boundaries in her own way.

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About the Contributors

Mitchell Eng, Web Sports Editor

Mitchell is a junior and serves as Web Sports Editor for the Oracle. Outside of school, he enjoys playing soccer, listening to music, and spending time with his friends.

Ava Li, Web News Editor, Social Media Manager

Ava is a senior and serves as Web News Editor and Social Media Manager for the Oracle. Outside of school, she enjoys dancing, drawing, and running hurdles for track.