What's the deal with Q4 performance ratings?

So, the annual review cycle is upon us, and honestly, it feels like a complete black box this year. Last year, there was at least a general sense of how things were tracking. This year? Radio silence. My manager is giving me the typical 'you're doing great' lines in 1:1s, but then when I ask about specific feedback or areas for development related to the review, it's all very generic. There's also been a noticeable increase in 'let's circle back on that' or 'we'll discuss that during your formal review'. Combined with the other subtle signs, like less emphasis on long-term projects and more on immediate deliverables, it's hard not to be a little concerned. Anyone else experiencing this level of ambiguity around performance reviews? Makes it tough to know where you stand.