Lana Del Rey's New Album Explores the Dark Side of California

i.dailymail.co.uk

Lana Del Rey's New Album Explores the Dark Side of California

Lana Del Rey has always been fascinated by the mystique and glamour of California, the state where she resides and where she has set many of her songs. From Hollywood to Malibu, from Venice Beach to Laurel Canyon, Del Rey has painted a nostalgic and romantic portrait of the Golden State in her previous albums.

But in her latest record, Did You Know That There's a Tunnel Under Ocean Blvd, which was released on December 15th, 2023, Del Rey takes a darker and more mysterious turn. The album title refers to an actual tunnel that runs under the Pacific Coast Highway in Long Beach, California, and that was used by smugglers and bootleggers during the Prohibition era. Del Rey said she was inspired by this hidden history and wanted to explore the themes of secrets, lies and betrayal that lurk beneath the surface of California's sunny facade.

The album consists of 16 songs, ranging from haunting ballads to cinematic anthems. The lead single, which shares the same name as the album, sets the tone for the rest of the record. It is a slow-burning and atmospheric track that features Del Rey's signature sultry vocals over a sparse piano melody. The lyrics describe a doomed romance between two lovers who meet in the tunnel and escape from their troubles in the dark. Del Rey sings: "Did you know that there's a tunnel under Ocean Blvd / Where we can hide away from the world / Did you know that there's a secret that we both share / But we can never tell anyone / 'Cause they wouldn't understand".

Another standout song is "A&W", which Del Rey released as a Valentine's Day gift for her fans on February 14th, 2023. The song is a tribute to her late boyfriend, who died in a car accident in 2021. The title refers to his initials, as well as to the fast-food chain where they used to eat together. The song is a heartbreaking and tender ode to their love, as Del Rey reminisces about their happy moments and expresses her grief and longing. She sings: "I miss you every day / I wish you were here with me / I still wear your ring / And I still go to A&W / 'Cause it reminds me of you".

The album also features some collaborations with other artists, such as Mike Hermosa, who co-wrote and produced several tracks, including "The Grants", a song about a wealthy and powerful family that is involved in corruption and scandal. The song is based on a true story that Del Rey read in a magazine, and it exposes the dark side of privilege and fame. She sings: "They have it all / They have the money and the power / They have the mansion and the cars / They have the influence and the connections / But they don't have a heart / They don't have a soul / They don't have a conscience / They are the Grants".

Did You Know That There's a Tunnel Under Ocean Blvd is another masterpiece from Lana Del Rey, who proves once again that she is one of the most original and captivating artists of our time. The album is a stunning and immersive exploration of the hidden realities and emotions that shape California and its people. It is an album that will haunt you long after you listen to it.