Little Simz titled her sixth album
Lotus in order to symbolize transformation, growth, and her evolving artistry. The release marks a major change for the acclaimed U.K. rapper, most notably for being her first album since she stopped working with
Inflo, the producer of her previous three records, including the Mercury Prize-winning
Sometimes I Might Be Introvert.
Simz sued
Inflo for failing to repay multiple loans. She also started and abandoned four albums, possibly with
Inflo, following the release of her 2022 victory lap
No Thank You.
Lotus was produced by
Miles Clinton James, who contributed to previous
Simz albums, in addition to releases by
Kokoroko,
Nao,
Kali Uchis, and others. For the most part, it maintains the sort of organic, sometimes cinematic sound of previous
Simz records, filled with muscular rhythms as well as lush strings. Stylistically, the songs branch out to a multitude of genres, from sensual neo-soul to tense post-punk ("Flood"), slinky bossa nova ("Only"),
Fela-esque Afrobeat ("Lion"), bratty Britpop ("Young"), and much more.
Simz doesn't name names, but there's little doubt who she's talking about when she mentions "financial exploitation, emotional exploitation" and "selling lies, selling dreams" on the bitter, accusatory "Thief," and a "fake supporter" on "Hollow," which juxtaposes aggressive lyrics with a soft orchestral bed. Even still, the album isn't always as angry or dramatic as some of her previous work. The highly introspective "Free" is about forgiveness and understanding change, and it sports some of the rapper's most profoundly moving lyrics, as well as a head-spinning final verse revolving around the word "free." "Blood" is just as impressive, taking the form of an impassioned phone call with a brother (played by
Wretch 32) who rarely keeps in touch, ultimately reaching out because he needs a friend. Even as
Simz finds it hard to trust people, she finds strength within herself, stating "I was lonely making an album until I realized I'm all I needed to get through" on the penultimate song. On
Lotus, the exceptionally gifted rapper is more vulnerable than ever, yet this only pushes her to be at her most self-empowering. ~ Paul Simpson
