Ariana Grande’s 2024 album “Eternal Sunshine” was already hailed as a stunning work of art, showcasing a blend of emotional ballads, bold pop anthems, and innovative sounds. But with the reissue, “Eternal Sunshine: Bright Day Ahead,” the pop powerhouse has elevated her masterpiece even further. The deluxe version introduces five new tracks—”Twilight Zone,” “Warm,” “Dandelion,” “Past Life,” “Hampstead,” along with an extended version of the album’s intro. These fresh additions build on the original album’s foundation, offering a deeper dive into Ariana’s evolving musical landscape, blending R&B, synthpop, and ballads in a way only she can.
The new songs have their own distinct identity, creating a subtle separation from the original album. “Twilight Zone” is an instant hit from the first note, with sparkling synths that draw you in and a rhythmic beat that’s easy to follow. The song takes you on a journey, with Ariana’s mesmerizing vocals building through layers of harmonies, especially toward the end, where she showcases her vocal prowess in a breathtaking acapella section. There’s an undeniable “bop” energy here, making it a stand-out track that could easily dominate the airwaves. Then, there’s “Warm,” another track that leans into the synthpop genre. Though not as catchy as “Twilight Zone,” the production is still absolutely stunning, with retro piano sounds and synths combined with modern production techniques and drums.
“Dandelion” might take listeners by surprise with its opening. The track begins with soft horns, which initially suggest we’re in for a jazzy, smooth ballad. But just as you settle into that expectation, the beat kicks in, and you’re transported into something unexpected. The production is infectious, with a rhythm that hints at Ariana’s “baddie” era, reminiscent of her powerful energy during her “Dangerous Woman” phase. On the opposite end of the spectrum, “Hampstead” brings us back to a more traditional ballad format. The song opens with a delicate, detuned piano, setting the stage for a melancholic mood. Ariana’s soft, airy vocals glide through the verses, eventually evolving into powerful, soaring notes in the chorus.
“Eternal Sunshine” was already a remarkable album, but with the addition of these new tracks, Ariana Grande has taken her sound to new heights. Vocally, she brings a fresh strength and depth to her performance across the six new songs. The reissue highlights her ability to reinvent herself and evolve, pushing boundaries while staying true to her signature style. “Eternal Sunshine: Bright Day Ahead” is not just a reissue, but a revitalization of an already extraordinary body of work.
Rating: 7.5/10