Fordham University’s alumna Lana Del Rey recently released her ninth studio album titled “Did you know that there’s a tunnel under Ocean Blvd.” The 16-track album, with features from Jon Batiste, SYML, Father John Misty, Bleachers and Tommy Genesis, is yet another hit by the popular singer-songwriter. 

Listening to this album felt like an out-of-body experience, and, in my opinion, it’s an absolute must listen.

The album begins with “The Grants,” a beautiful, melancholy song describing what she believes will happen when we die, referencing the words of a pastor who told her that “when you leave, all you take is your memories.” She sings about the memories of her family members, including her uncle, her sister’s first-born child and her grandmother. It feels bittersweet, as she is grateful for the people in her life and the memories they gave her, but there is still an element of sadness in leaving those you love.

One track that was released ahead of the album was “A&W.” It’s a longer song of around seven minutes, but I enjoyed every second of its beautiful piano melody, supporting guitar and vocals. In this piece, Del Rey opens up the trauma of her past, explaining that she was sexually assaulted. She then asks, “Do you really think that anybody would think I didn’t ask for it?” She refers to herself as an “American Wh*re,” which is what “A&W” stands for. It’s interesting to see her call herself this numerous times, even though she was assaulted. It seems as if she blames herself, repeating the phrase, “Ask me why I’m like this. Maybe I’m just kinda like this. Don’t know, maybe I’m just like this.” 

If there is one song you listen to from this album, it should be “Fishtail.” Being my personal favorite, the best way I can describe listening to “Fishtail” is feeling like you’re levitating and melting at the same time. If you don’t believe me, go to minute 1:01 of the song and see for yourself. Del Rey sings about the difficulties of navigating a complex relationship, repeating the phrase “you wanted me sadder” throughout the song. She also repeats “don’t you dare say that you’ll braid my hair babe, you don’t really care,” using a metaphor to represent a partner who may be insincere towards her. 

A close second to “Fishtail” is “Let The Light In” featuring Father John Misty. This song definitely snuck up on me, but in the best way. I initially breezed past it when first listening to the album. When I revisited it, I was blown away. The harmonies between Del Rey and Father John Misty during the chorus feel addicting to listen to. “Let The Light In” is an emotional yet heartfelt piece outlining the pursuit of happiness in a relationship. By repeating the words “let the light in,” Del Rey asks for one to open up their hearts, become vulnerable and let themselves love and be loved.

A few honorable mentions are “Sweet,” “Paris, Texas” and “Peppers.” With that being said, every single song on this album was truly a hit, although this is unsurprising coming from the five-time Grammy winner. 

Known for her beautiful music about heartbreak, fear and loneliness, Del Rey exceeded expectations on her latest album. “Did you know that there’s a tunnel under Ocean Blvd” has given me enough incredible songs to last until her next album, which I don’t doubt will impress me yet again.