Amaarae’s new album Black Star has earned an impressive 8.8 rating and a “Best New Music” title from Pitchfork.
This is one of the strongest reviews of her career and a major moment for the Ghanaian-American artist.
Inspired by Global Nightlife
The album was released under Interscope Records and shows a major step forward in Amaarae’s sound.
Over the past two years, she spent a lot of time in club scenes around the world, from Miami to Los Angeles to São Paulo.
According to Pitchfork, this global nightlife experience shaped the album’s direction.
The review describes the album’s sound as “CzechSlovakAtlanta,” meaning it mixes influences from everywhere and doesn’t belong to just one place.
A Mix of Many Genres
Black Star blends many different styles, including:
Chicago house
Detroit techno and ghettotech
Ghanaian local genres
Early-2000s pop
Amaarae continues her mission of “switching genres till we make it pop,” creating songs that feel fresh and unpredictable.
Tracks like “Girlie-Pop!” and “Fineshyt” combine Jersey-club beats, highlife touches, and fun throwback dance sounds.
Samples and Collaborations
The album also features creative nods to past hits and exciting collaborations:
PinkPantheress joins her on “Kiss Me Thru the Phone pt 2,” which has an early-2000s R&B vibe.
“Starkilla” includes a playful reference to Kelis’ famous hit “Milkshake.”
“She Is My Drug,” produced with El Guincho, takes inspiration from Cher’s “Believe” and turns it into something dreamier and more emotional.
Fun on the Surface, Feelings Underneath
While much of the album celebrates nightlife, partying, and escape, Pitchfork notes that there are deeper feelings hidden inside.
Songs like “B2B” start off energetic but end in a soft, emotional moment with guitars and strings.
The review compares the album’s mood to a shiny “birdcage” beautiful and full of fantasy, but also a bit trapped or lonely.
A Victory for Amaarae
Pitchfork calls Black Star a “victory lap” for Amaarae and praises her as more than just a pop singer, an artist with a clear vision and strong creative control.
Across its 14 tracks, the album creates a glamorous, global world where different cultures and club styles blend together.
With Black Star, Amaarae proves she is one of today’s most creative and fearless pop artists, delivering music that is both smart and perfect for the dance floor.
