Lotus cover

Lotus

Little Simz · 2025

49 min · 13 tracks · UK rap

A powerful blend of introspective lyricism and diverse sonic textures, merging UK rap with elements of soul and electronic music.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Thief — This opening track sets the tone for the entire album, showcasing Simz's sharp wordplay and emotional vulnerability while discussing themes of loss and betrayal.
  • →
    Free — In this track, Simz explores the concept of freedom both personally and artistically, using dynamic production to enhance her message about self-liberation.
  • →
    Lotus — The title track encapsulates the album's themes of resilience and transformation, featuring a lush soundscape that mirrors Simz's lyrical journey through struggle and growth.
  • →
    Blood — This poignant track delves into familial relationships and legacy, employing narrative storytelling that highlights Simz's ability to weave complex emotions into her music.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

63 /100
Treeline
Higher than 74% of albums we've rated

The album showcases strong writing and production, though its cohesion is slightly affected by pacing shifts.

What we noticed

  • The first three tracks feature a consistent mid-tempo beat, while the fourth track introduces a more subdued, reflective tone.
  • Several tracks incorporate layered vocal harmonies and varied instrumentation, blending electronic elements with traditional hip-hop beats.
  • The album closes with two slower tracks that create a contemplative atmosphere, contrasting with the more energetic earlier songs.
Composition 25% of the score
7/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
8/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
7/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
7/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
6/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • steady pacing with emotional depth
  • introspective moments for quiet reflection
  • consistent flow with climactic build
  • vibrant storytelling through innovative beats

Maybe skip if you

  • prefer upbeat, fast-paced tracks
  • seek immediate gratification in music

Where this album fits

Career context
'Lotus' is Little Simz's fourth studio album, released after her critically acclaimed project 'Sometimes I Might Be Introvert' in 2021. At this point in her career, she had solidified her reputation as a leading voice in UK rap, balancing commercial success with artistic integrity. This album showcases her continued evolution as an artist and her growing influence within the global music scene.
Stylistic neighbors
Sampa the Great· Jorja Smith· Slowthai

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 Thief 4:00
  • 2 Flood 2:47
  • 3 Young 2:50
  • 4 Only 3:35
  • 5 Free 3:35
  • 6 Peace 4:27
  • 7 Hollow 2:54
  • 8 Lion 2:57
  • 9 Enough 3:02
  • 10 Blood 4:28
  • 11 Lotus 6:35
  • 12 Lonely 4:25
  • 13 Blue 4:14

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata