Nao’s Musical Evolution: From Saturn to Jupiter

A Journey of Reinvention

In 2018, Nao discovered a captivating metaphor for personal transformation through the concept of Saturn’s return—an astrological belief that suggests individuals undergo significant changes every three decades. At the age of 30, this London-based singer had already established herself as a trailblazer in the realm of synth funk, collaborating with renowned electronic producers such as Disclosure, A.K. Paul, and Mura Masa. Her earlier work was characterized by retrofuturistic sounds infused with rich basslines and infectious grooves.

Transitioning Musical Styles

With her album “Saturn,” Nao shifted away from her dense funk roots, embracing a more airy R&B sound that incorporated elements of Afropop, neo-soul, and quiet storm. This new direction allowed her remarkable vocal range to shine, as she effortlessly oscillated between ethereal highs and deep, resonant lows. The thematic focus on space became a central element in her lyrics, transforming personal tales of love and loss into cosmic narratives that explored the joys of closeness and the sorrows of separation.

The Sister Album: Jupiter

Nao’s latest project, “Jupiter,” has been described as a “sister album” to “Saturn.” However, this new offering seems to lack the sparkle of her previous work, often feeling derivative and muddled. While her earlier albums skillfully navigated the diverse influences that shaped her sound, “Jupiter” appears directionless.

Thematic Exploration: Healing and Gratitude

The overarching themes of healing and gratitude resonate throughout “Jupiter.” Nao spent half a year in Los Angeles working on the album, a change of scenery that aided her recovery from a challenging autoimmune disease. As she channels her experiences, the record is infused with upbeat vibes and warm melodies, creating a sense of domestic joy. Yet, despite the pleasant atmosphere, many tracks come across as somewhat generic. Lines like “Living like happy people/Living a life more peaceful” from the song “Happy People” reflect a vague idealism, lacking depth and specificity.

The Cosmic Imagery: A Double-Edged Sword

While Nao’s use of cosmic imagery is prevalent throughout the album, it sometimes becomes a crutch that detracts from the substance of her songwriting. Tracks like “Light Years” showcase her ability to craft a compelling space-themed ballad, characterized by a soaring hook and vibrant synths. However, other attempts at cosmic metaphors, such as “Closer when we’re far apart like/Milky Ways and hazy stars” in “Better Days,” fall flat, resulting in vague emotional expressions that fail to resonate.

Grounded Songs and Confusing Symbolism

Many of the more grounded tracks on “Jupiter” also struggle to make an impact. For instance, the playful nu-disco tune “Poolside” aims for lighthearted fun but is marred by awkward lyrics like “Come play in my poolside.” Similarly, “Just Dive,” which seems to encourage taking risks, becomes confusing with its mythological aquatic imagery. Despite Nao’s supple vocals and lively production keeping the album from becoming tedious, the hazy symbolism detracts from the overall listening experience.

The Standout Track: All of Me

Interestingly, the most powerful song on the album, “All of Me,” eschews metaphor entirely. Set against a backdrop of pulsating bass and crisp hi-hat rhythms, Nao articulates her desires with clarity, singing, “All of me on you.” This track stands out as it captures the essence of space not merely as a concept but as a tangible connection between individuals—one that is dynamically negotiated on the earthly plane.

Conclusion

Nao’s journey from “Saturn” to “Jupiter” illustrates the complexities of artistic reinvention. While her latest album explores uplifting themes and showcases her vocal prowess, it often lacks the depth and clarity that characterized her earlier work. As Nao continues to navigate her musical path, fans are left to ponder the balance between cosmic aspirations and the grounded experiences that truly resonate.

FAQs

What is Saturn’s return in astrology?

Saturn’s return is an astrological phenomenon that occurs approximately every 29.5 years, marking a period of significant personal growth and transformation in an individual’s life.

What genres does Nao incorporate into her music?

Nao blends various genres in her music, including R&B, synth funk, Afropop, neo-soul, and quiet storm, creating a unique sound that reflects her diverse influences.

What themes are prevalent in Nao’s album “Jupiter”?

The themes of healing, gratitude, and the exploration of cosmic imagery are central to Nao’s album “Jupiter,” although some tracks lack depth and specificity in their lyrics.

What makes “All of Me” stand out on the album?

“All of Me” is distinguished by its straightforward lyrics and emotional clarity, contrasting with the more metaphor-laden tracks on the album, making it one of the most impactful songs.