Once a viral phenomenon, Lana Del Rey has now been elevated to genuine stardom, with her debut "Born to Die" already selling 3 million copies around the world. There may have been no need to mess with a winning formula, but once again, LDR confounds expectations by releasing a bonus EP, simply titled "Paradise". Since it was only released a matter of months after her last release, it's no surprise to see that her approach to her music is still the same: a mix of cinematography, pop culture references, subtle trip-hop beats, and string arrangements that provide an appropriate amount of pathos. However, besides these similarities, "Paradise" and "Born to Die" actually don't sound that much alike at all. Where as LDR's debut was a tightly sealed collection of potential crossover-pop hits, like an early Fiona Apple, "Paradise" is her true artistic statement, never once sounding like she's vying for airplay (though some songs would fit alongside other singles on the radio), while the productions are significantly more lush, more in line with Sia if she ever dabbled in hip-hop. It also helps that LDR's voice has notably improved, expanding lower and higher into her range than she seemingly 'allowed' on her debut. Indeed, "Born to Die" and "Paradise" are distinctly different albums, which adds further proof that LDR may be here awhile. If the ethereal "Ride" or gorgeous "Bel Air" don't convince you, then nothing will.
Recommended Tracks in Bold:
1. Ride 2. American 3. Cola
4. Body Electric 5. Blue Velvet 6. Gods & Monsters
7. Yayo 8. Bel Air
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