Rating: 5/5 stars
This thrilling new era for Lana Del Rey (“Born To Die”) has once again been teased through the singer’s latest single “A&W,” which dropped on Valentine’s Day ahead of the release of her ninth studio album “Did you know that there’s a tunnel under Ocean Blvd.” This latest single stuns with its seven-minute length and two distinct parts that will make listeners want to roll down the windows and turn up the bass.
Unlike the name of the title suggests “A&W” is not solely named after the soft drink and fast food brand, but is also cleverly derived from the words “American W—” which pop up several times in this latest single. This clever naming is one that should be noted by listeners of this song.
This experimental single sets listeners up with its melodic and psychedelic first part. Much like older songs in the singer’s discography the lyrics in this first part share the hardships that come with being seen as an object of attraction in the eyes of the public. The deeper message is further conveyed through lyrics such as “Do you really think that anybody would think I didn’t ask for it? / I didn’t ask for it / I won’t testify I already f—ed up my story” which is sure to get whoever listens to understand what Del Rey is trying to show. This first part is a good step for those who are only more familiar with some of Del Rey’s top tracks such as “Summertime Sadness” and “Young and Beautiful” but are interested in looking into more of what the singer has to offer.
The second part of the song is where the experimental elements of this latest single shine. Del Rey’s use of the previous psychedelic melody to slip into the second parts trap and hip-hop sound is sure to shock but intrigue listeners. The second part’s use of repetitive lyrics like “Jimmy only love me when he wanna get high” and catchy bass line still convey Del Rey’s original message in a way. The single’s second part will also make the listener wish they could hear it on the club floor. For those who are not long time listeners of Del Rey it is to be noted that this is not the first time Jim or Jimmy has appeared in the singer’s lyrics. Jim has been a repeating character in the singer’s songs since 2006 and has popped up a few more times, but it is not known if the “Jim” is the same one throughout her discography.
Overall, this entrancing psychedelic trap single “A&W” really offers it all, in terms of variety to those new and old. This is a sure repeat for those waiting for the release of her full length album “Did you know that there’s a tunnel under Ocean Blvd” which comes out March 24, 2023.
Image from Lana Del Rey via Twitter
