In 2018, Denzel Curry released the innovative album TA1300, a collection of songs split into three distinct sections: ‘light’, ‘grey’ and ‘dark’. The album excellently executed this concept, delving deep into Denzel’s inner emotions and presenting an often dark, moody vibe. Has Zuu managed to continue Denzel’s ascension to stardom?
Zuu is a clear departure from the style present in TA1300. While TA1300 was a deep, often emotional project, Zuu has one clear aim: to make summer bangers. This is clear right from the first track, with the self-titled song ‘Zuu’ which utilises heavy production with Denzel defiantly chanting “boy we comin out the zuu”. This bass heavy production is continued on the next track ‘Ricky’ in which Denzel energetically raps about his family history and his roots. With a blistering hook and confident raps, this marks one of the best tracks on the album.
Denzel continues this theme of bass-heavy tracks throughout the album. While TA1300 often spoke on emotionally deep and serious topics it’s clear that Denzel aimed to create a fun, vibrant album with Zuu. With ‘Shake 88’, Denzel creates a modern day club anthem, utilising pitched up vocals in order to create a catchy and rhythmic hook. Throughout the album, as also seen in tracks ‘Carolmart’ and ‘Birdz,’ Denzel continues to spout seemingly never-ending energy; one of his greatest strengths.
Despite this, there are several shortcomings to the project. Denzel fails to match the excellent lyricism he achieved on TA1300, with several lyrical shortcomings as seen on the track ‘Automatic’. On top of this, the project is too short, with the two skits ‘Yoo’ and ‘Blackland 66.6’ taking up too much time on an already short project. At just 29 minutes, Zuu could have used several more songs in order to close the album on a better note. Some of the features, such as ‘PlayThatBoiZay’s appearance on ‘P.A.T.’ , are unnecessary, not adding to the overall song in a positive manner.
Despite these shortcomings, with Zuu Denzel has created a project which perfectly utilises his seemingly never-ending energy and penchant for creating catchy hooks. Zuu is a fun, vibrant project that, while not presenting any new significant ideas, is very enjoyable to listen to.
Rating: 7.3/10
Written by Jacob Matthews
Masterpiece Music 