ZUU
by Denzel Curry
Metascore
85

Universal acclaim - based on 8 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 8 out of 8
  2. Mixed: 0 out of 8
  3. Negative: 0 out of 8
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  1. AllMusic
    Jun 21, 2019
    90
    In less than a half hour, Curry establishes himself not only as one of the most capable and exciting artists of his generation, but also worthy of a place in Miami's rap pedigree, right alongside the local icons who inspired this gem.
  2. Pitchfork
    Jun 4, 2019
    83
    There are few forces more powerful than the feeling of belonging. In creating his stunning Miami rap opus, Denzel Curry taps into that, demonstrating that he belongs among its most distinguished representatives in the process.
  3. HipHopDX
    Jun 26, 2019
    82
    ZUU is filled with entertaining records, but their relatively short runtimes often leave one yearning for more. This brevity is just minor quibble though when presented with rewind-worthy efforts such as “Ricky,” a creation named after Curry’s father.
  5. Exclaim
    Jun 27, 2019
    80
    Curry has come a long way since he blew up and has fully solidified his place in the game. If ZUU isn't in your rotation, you're sleeping.
  6. Clash Music
    Jun 4, 2019
    80
    ZUU is an experience that transports the listener to a specific time and place. ZUU is further proof that Denzel Curry is one of hip-hop's most interesting and progressive MCs.
  7. New Musical Express (NME)
    Jun 4, 2019
    80
    Overall, he has created a musical representation of his upbringing in the Sunshine state, evoking its intricate culture. His mixture of smoother, dreamier beats in opposition with harder-hitting and chest-bouncing ones create an aural journey and explanation as to why he is “real-ass n***a from the 305”.
  8. Consequence
    Jun 4, 2019
    75
    ZUU is Curry’s ASTROWORLD, unmistakably transporting us to a specific time and place and never apologizing for it. The 2019 summer snapshot may prove as ephemeral as the season it represents, but for Curry, it represents an important step in embracing the heart and changing the hatred of a city it’s clear he will never truly leave.
  9. RapReviews.com
    Jun 4, 2019
    70
    Even though I said Curry raps more than his peers, I didn’t say he NEVER sings. He flips back and forth between both on tracks like the Rugah Rajh produced “Speedboat,” but the nice thing is that he’s not so heavily medicated and AutoTuned that you can’t follow along with his delivery.

Awards & Rankings

33
#33 Best Album of 2019
57
#57 Most Discussed Album of 2019

User Reviews

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User Score
8.0

Generally favorable reviews- based on 149 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 132 out of 149
  2. Mixed: 12 out of 149
  3. Negative: 5 out of 149
  1. VictorMonteiro
    Jun 6, 2019
    8
    Denzel proves to be one of the most consistent young rappers out there, putting out another great solid project. ZUU is a celebration of theDenzel proves to be one of the most consistent young rappers out there, putting out another great solid project. ZUU is a celebration of the birthplace of Curry - Florida, specifically Carol City. As in his other projects all the tracks are full of energy and intense crispy deliveries that are totally unique. In addition, Denzel's beat selection is better than ever and helps to transport the listener to his hometown.… Full Review »
  2. RegenT_A_1300
    Dec 20, 2022
    10
    super good ILY Denzel and Kendrick is like really good but you're better xoxoxoxo
  3. Shaymooose
    Aug 17, 2019
    7
    Not as conceptual or as grand as TA13OO but it's not trying to be. Very laid back love letter to Denzel's home town of Miami, Florida.

    Best    Not as conceptual or as grand as TA13OO but it's not trying to be. Very laid back love letter to Denzel's home town of Miami, Florida.

    Best Tracks: WISH, RICKY, SPEEDBOAT, ZUU, P.A.T
    Worst Tracks: Shake 88    … Full Review »
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