Lana Del Rey – Ultraviolence
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Lana Del Rey is a compelling performer and artist, who sprang to prominence just a few years ago. She brought an unusual style to her pop music creations, with a unique slow, simmering style reminiscent of old time torch singers. Her videos are racy and mysterious, and show that she is as an artist and star with the craft of Lady Gaga.
The young American singer and songwriter uses numerous vintage references in her work, and has created a special brand that is all her own. She said that she has drawn inspiration from disparate sources such as poetry, film noir, Elvis, and Nirvana. While some people call her brilliant and others disagree, there is no denying the influence she has had on other performers, such as Miley Cyrus and Lorde.
Del Rey made her debut on the major labels in 2012, with her album Born to Die. That collection of sadly romantic siren songs debuted in the number two position on the Billboard 200 in the US, and it was the 5th bestselling album that year. A remake of the single from that album called Summertime Sadness peaked at the number six position on the Billboard Hot 100.
Del Rey’s new album, called Ultraviolence, is another collection of sad songs, as it chronicles addiction, failed romance, and forgotten dreams in a melancholy way. This album combines violence, sexual desire, and deep dark sadness. The title track is about a woman who clings to her man, despite the way he physically abuses her. One disturbing line says that though he hit her, it felt like a kiss.
For this album, Del Rey brought in Dan Auerbach who produced most of the album. He added some psychedelic guitar and bluesy riffs to the tracks, but at its heart, the music is still the emotional creation of Del Rey. She co-wrote all of the songs except one, and her hazy melancholic style is central to the album.
In the song Cruel World, Del Rey sings about madness and love, while riffs in the background are drenched in reverb. The song Sad Girl seems like it could be a theme song for Del Rey. She sings that she’s a bad girl and a sad girl, as her voice shifts from childlike to despairing. Another song, Shades of Cool, gives Del Rey a chance to show her range with an operatic track that would be a good fit for a James Bond movie.
In this album, most of the love affairs are doomed to failure, and battles will never be won. It may be sad, but it’s unforgettable.
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