Ariana Grande is a Ray of ‘eternal sunshine’

“How can I tell if I’m in the right relationship?”

Ariana Grande poses the question in the very first line of her March 8 release “eternal sunshine.” Listeners are able to ponder alongside Grande during the 13 tracks, whose answer wavers until the last song.

Raw, honest and relatable, “eternal sunshine” is Grande’s most sophisticated record to date. 

The album’s concept is heavily inspired by the 2004 movie “Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind” starring Jim Carrey — one of Grande’s favorite actors.

Opening track “intro (end of the world)” showcases Grande’s distinct, heavenly voice as she questions a romantic relationship. She opens the album with a planetary motif that makes itself present throughout.

“If the moon went dark tonight / And if it all ended tomorrow / Would I be the one on your mind, your mind, your mind? / Would you be the one on mine?” Grande sings.

The second track “bye” follows with themes of healing, growth and reflection. Grande vocalizes along an upbeat track — backed by her own background vocals and adlibs — while singing vulnerably about self-prioritization and moving on from an extinguished relationship.

“don’t wanna break up again,” co-written by Grande and producer Max Martin, is one of the album’s strongest songs. Through intense lyrics layered on top of an infectious, melodic blend of pop and R&B, the song tells a story of delaying the inevitable and staying in a relationship despite its impending doom.

Beginning with Grande’s laugh, the titular track is a bright light on the album, intertwining lived experiences with fictional references to the film “Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind.”

“So I try to wipe my mind / Just so I feel less insane / Rather feel painless,” Grande sings. 

With the jarring juxtaposition of raw emotion and contagious beat drops, the song just beams — courtesy of Martin’s production. 

Fiercely controlled vocals are fluent across “eternal sunshine,” especially on “true story.” Grande is more deliberate about showing off her incredible vocal range, making moments where she belts more impactful. Harmonizing with herself on the track, her vocals are akin to tracks like “Leave Me Lonely” from her 2016 album “Dangerous Woman.”

“true story” sets up the next track “the boy is mine,” inspired by a song of the same name by Brandy and Monica. With the popularity of her leaked song “fantasize,” “the boy is mine” is an alternative that makes Grande’s voice appear ’90s-esque.

“yes, and?” was the album’s first single, released Jan. 12, and Grande’s public debut after not releasing an album since 2020, while her divorce made headlines. In the house-inspired track, she continues to smirk in the faces of critics as she reiterates that she doesn’t owe anyone an explanation. 

“Now, I’m so done with caring / What you think, no, I won’t hide / Don’t comment on my body, do not reply / Your business is yours and mine is mine,” Grande sings in the bridge.

Despite its time in the public eye, “yes, and?” is the weakest track on “eternal sunshine” — it’s an obvious outlier in terms of emotional intimacy.

Heartbreakingly honest, the second single “we can’t be friends (wait for your love)” is one of the strongest on “eternal sunshine.” With a synth-pop beat, stunning melodies and significant vocal clarity and diction, the track is perfection. 

“i wish i hated you” is the most emotional and moving track on the album. The ballad recounts the internal conflict of being stuck on a past lover — with hate overpowering the qualms of immense heartbreak.

The penultimate track “imperfect for you” is a flawless reflection on friends being there for each other amidst hardship. The song features a diverse range of vocal ability on a steady, captivating beat.

“Fucked up / Anxious / Too much / But I’ll love you like you need me to / Imperfect for you,” Grande sings.

“ordinary things” featuring Nonna is the album’s final track — and the only song with a feature. After Grande sings about how the right person makes every little moment in life feel special, a voice message from Grande’s grandmother concludes “eternal sunshine” with advice and an answer to the introduction’s question. 

The 36-minute album is her shortest project yet. Although concise, the album was anything but disappointing and Grande’s sonic capabilities peered through clouds of high anticipation.

With longevity and replay value, Grande demonstrates resilience on “eternal sunshine.” Like the movie that inspires it, the album suggests that love is worth it despite the pain and sadness it can create.
“eternal sunshine” is available to stream on all major platforms.

Featured image courtesy of Republic Records