Rating: ★★★★☆
Label: Big Machine
Released Oct. 27
Taylor Swift is no longer in Nashville, and that is clear with the release of “1989,” which symbolizes her departure from country and embrace of pop music in an entirely new city, New York.
“1989,” which also happens to be Swift’s year of birth, signals her rebirth as an artist. Influenced by the sound of the ‘80s, she takes on an entirely new sound.
What may have alarmed several of her fans and critics was the announcement that this album would be a pop album and would abandon the country genre.
Listening to “Shake It Off,” for the first time is cringe-worthy; lyrically, it seemed like it was written for someone like Becky G.; however, like many of her songs, they will grow on the listener.
The songs’ lyrics are relatable and catchy, but also clever. She is able to introduce a vivid picture in less than four minutes that lingers in your mind for hours.
In “Blank Space,” she sings: “Got a long list of ex-lovers / They’ll tell you I’m insane / ‘Cause you know I love the players / And you love the game.” Cleverly satirizing her dating life in the public eye, she pokes fun on the public persona she has been given by the media.
The track is Swift deciding to be unapologetic; it sizzles with sass.
Another of the standout songs in the album is “Wildest Dreams,” which seems to be inspired by Lana Del Rey.
Swift is able to execute her delivery of “Wildest Dreams” with lyrics like, “Say you’ll remember me / Standing in a nice dress / Staring at the sunset, babe / Red lips and rosy cheeks / Say you’ll see me again.”
“How You Get The Girl” and “I Know Places” should probably rank pretty high in anyone’s list of favorites, although it may be extremely hard to choose.
Unlike her previous album, “RED,” “1989” flows well together. Every song complements the previous.
“1989,” is her best work to date. The album is a clear statement of someone who is not afraid to leave her comfort-zone.
Swift is no longer drowning us in the sorrows that come with relationships. This seems to be a more hopeful Swift.