Album Review: Dua Lipa - 'Future Nostalgia'

Dua Lipa, Britain’s biggest female star, has released her second studio album, ‘Future Nostalgia’ which gives an insight into who she really is. Dua is no stranger to success-her anthemic single ‘No Rules’ has amassed over a billion streams. ‘Future Nostalgia’ is a brilliant album, packed full of bangers. It was released early due to the coronavirus. 

The kitsch title track is funky and full of attitude, with an ‘80s vibe. “I know you ain’t used to a female alpha,” she sings. ‘Don’t Start Now’ was also the first track from the album to be released as a single. In it, Dua continues to exude confidence as she puts an ex in his place. “If you don’t want to see me dancing with somebody/Don’t show up, don’t come out, don’t start caring about me now”. 

‘Physical’ is another track that made it as a single. It’s also another high-octane banger where disco pop is made to sound contemporary. It’s a great effort. In her current single, ‘Break My Heart’ Dua Lipa uses an INXS sample (‘Need You Tonight’) and manages not to be cheesy, with honest lyrics. Dua has a powerful voice and she showcases it throughout this album. 

‘Boys Will Be Boys’ features a choir and strings in a sincere song about feminism in a world of toxic masculinity. “I’m sure if there’s something that I can’t find the words to say / I know that there will be a man around to save the day / And that was sarcasm in case you needed it mansplained / I should have stuck to ballet.” ‘Future Nostalgia’ is a collection of sophisticated, intoxicating pop-funk hits. This is the album that will launch Dua Lipa into superstardom. 

Words by Narzra Ahmed

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