8/10

Over the last few years, Lizzo has been one of the best hidden talents on the pop scene. Releasing a number of albums and EPs through independent and self-produced imprints, the frontwoman has now scored a major label deal through Nice Life/Atlantic Records, as she returns with her most high-profile full-length to date, 'Cuz I Love You', a record that brings her unique flair and swagger to the mainstream for the very first time.

She may have always had this flamboyant personality on older releases such as 'Lizzobangers' and 'Big GRRRL Small World', but this new return with a strong label backing has enabled her to bring her energy to some spotlessly produced new tunes and deliver one hell of a fun album in the process. Mixing up a direction that incorporates hip-hop, pop and disco, 'Cuz I Love You' takes all the micro elements that have filled Lizzo's back catalogue to date and merge them together into a wonderful melting pot of ferocious energy and proficient songwriting that makes this one of the most vibrant new releases of the year so far.

While bringing together so many contrasting genres may sound messy on paper, she has such an incredible presence on this release, it is almost impossible to find fault with the album's eclectic nature. Whether it is a soulful serenade or an all-out rap banger, she has the pipes to handle it and showcase her exceptional talents to the commercial world for the first time.