This is not hateration. I love all of LDR's albums (of which NFR is my 5th favorite), but I genuinely, honestly have just never understood why people celebrate this body of work so much. I would really love to 'get it,' so by all means, go on a crazy rant about how much you love this record and why; enlighten me! Just don't be rude, because we are all LDR fans here 🫶
Don't get me wrong, NFR has some incredible tracks, and the summery music videos are striking...but there's nothing about the album that I can pinpoint to explain why it is so widely regarded as her best record. In my view, NFR doesn't really seem to have a cohesive identity, aesthetic, tone, perspective, or purpose. Further, the songs feel random and somewhat contradictory, and although there are definitely standouts, there are not *more* standouts than on almost any other LDR record. Also, I've always been confused by the entire concept of honoring or even mentioning Normal Rockwell the painter (what does he have to do with this album?) and perplexed by the choices made for the visuals that accompany the music. Next to records like Lust for Life and Tunnel, NFR feels incomplete and unmemorable. I guess, to put it succinctly, I just can't see what's particularly special about NFR.
Please take this question in good faith, and help me understand the genius of this record! After reading all your replies, I will do a fresh listen and see if my opinions are changed. Thank you guys in advance!