Vocal acrobat Ariana Grande has released her long awaited seventh studio album, “Eternal Sunshine.” The record, released on Mar. 8, includes 13 tracks. 

Upon first listen, the album sounded underwhelming. Some of Grande’s lyrics lack depth and inspiration, and most tracks felt forgettable. However, after letting the album really marinate, “Eternal Sunshine” might be one of Grande’s best. 

As one may expect from the title, “Eternal Sunshine” is a reference to the 2004 film “Eternal Sunshine of The Spotless Mind.” There are little nods to the film throughout the album and its corresponding music videos.  

The production on this record is beautiful. Production legend Max Marten, ILYA, and Grande herself all have production credits. 

The first single “yes, and?” was not good. The lyrics felt inauthentic, like any made for radio empowerment song. The production in the bridge was strange and out of place.

“bye” was the song that worried me that the rest of the project would also fall flat, and it was only the second track. “bye” lyrically is extremely basic. “Bye bye/ boy bye/ bye bye/ it’s over it’s over oh yeah” being the hook was jarring. It felt like an unfinished demo had somehow made its way onto the tracklist. 

Eternal Sunshine, like any album has its lows, but the highs are wonderful. “we can’t be friends (wait for your love)” is a very emotional track. This is what this album needed. Real authentic lyrics with great vocal delivery. Grande has never sounded so healthy vocally. She has a beautiful technique, and her enunciation has improved greatly. “true story” seems to put an end to the homewrecking allegations plaguing Grande. “i wish i hated you” is such an impactful song. Even just from the title alone, you know this track will be a heavy hitter.  The twinkling sound in the back adds a nice ambiance to the track, almost sounding like a distant memory. 

In all, “Eternal Sunshine” is a great R&B/Pop record. Grande shows an elevated more mature side of her sound.