Continuing an impressive run in 2018, Ariana Grande delivers her second post-Sweetener single in lush, sensually-tinged slow jam, “Imagine.”

“Imagine a world like that / We go like up ‘til I’m sleep on your chest / Love how my face fits so good in your neck / Why can’t you imagine a world like that?” Hmm, seems like we shouldn’t be talking about Grammy-nominated pop singer Ariana Grande so soon, following the release of her fourth studio album, Sweetener.  But, hence, here we are, talking about the incredibly talented singer once more. Fresh off from earning multiple songs on our gargantuan 100 Best Songs of 2018 year-in-review list (“God is a Woman”, “Thank U, Next”, and “No Tears Left to Cry”), Grande returns with more goodness.  After building more buzz for her forthcoming fifth studio album with “Thank U, Next”, Grande follows it up with “Imagine.”

As the above-mentioned lyrical excerpt suggests, Ariana Grande is in sensually-charged, focused on a relationship that’s ‘lit’ to say the least.  The sleek urban contemporary production supports this vibe. In my personal opinion, the sound of this record sounds much more ‘fitting’ for her compared to some of the production gracing Sweetener.  One reason why is because she truly embraces her role as a younger Mariah Carey, and this sounds like the type of record she’d excel on.  The high notes by Grande don’t hurt the cause either. Grande establishes the pleasure on the first verse, keeping things incredibly ‘cool’ and filled with swagger:

“Me with no makeup, you in the bathtub

Bubbles and bubbly, ooh

This is a pleasure, feel like we never act this regular.”

On the second verse, the ‘picture perfect’ relationship continues, as Grande asserts, “Knew you were perfect after the first kiss.” Because it’s ‘real,’ she urges him later, “Tell me your secrets / All of the creep shit / That’s how I know it’s true.”  The lyrics and theme aren’t incredibly complex or game changing but work extremely well for Grande.

Final Thoughts 

Once again, Ariana Grande is on-point, period.  “Imagine” gives her another superb single, further building anticipation for her fifth studio album.  “Imagine” isn’t quite as thrilling as “Thank U, Next” was, but it’s a well-rounded slow jam all said and done.

Ariana Grande • Imagine [Single] • Republic • Release: 12.14.18

Photo Credit: Republic