The only thing I have to say is “WOW,” the title of Zara Larsson’s latest song holds up — right down to its capitalization. Sonically, it’s the singer’s most adventurous track to date, with its minor piano chords, reverberated and chopped vocals, menacing horns, and taunting synths giving her an edge that previously escaped her music. An ode to nothing more than carnal desire, Larsson prowls through the song as she continues to excite both her partner and the listener, delivering another stellar performance in the lead-up to her forthcoming, as-of-yet untitled third album.
Larsson is horny for reciprocation, y’all. This is evident in the first few seconds of “WOW,” where the singer explains “the way you want me makes me want you;” in a world concerned with consent more than ever before (as it absolutely should), she makes bangers where all parties have a say in how it goes down. As she makes her way through the track, the singer assures her lover that this is exactly what she wants to happen, “no chemicals in [her] system.” Then comes the incredible post-chorus, a pseudo-drop where she repeatedly sings “make your jaw drop, drop” — it isn’t a command, it’s a declaration of fact. While it’s clear Larsson’s statement is directed at the subject of the song, it would be a disservice to “WOW” if I didn’t admit that mine was on the floor, as well.
Rating: 4/5