By Rebecca Hext
Staff Writer
Like many other musical artists, Taylor Swift’s love life has always influenced her song writing and melodies.
Swift’s newest album, “Red,” released on Oct. 22, combines her heartbreak anthems, incredible song-writing talent and some new stylistic choices to create an entertaining album for fans.
Swift released her self-titled debut album in 2006, and her second album, “Fearless,” in 2008. Her third, “Speak Now,” released in 2010, sold more than 1 million copies within the first week.
Instead of an entire album of break-up ballads, as per Swift’s norm, “Red” utilizes a wider variety of styles than she has done in the past. Although the album does include some love songs, it also has popier tracks and some of Swift’s first collaborations. This new variety adds a uniqueness not seen before.
Swift’s two hit singles from the album, “We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together” and “I Knew You Were Trouble,” both show this new side. “I Knew You Were Trouble” exhibits a dubstep-style beat during the chorus, taking listeners by surprise. This new sound adds the perfect amount of spontaneity from her typical music to keep fans interested as she evolves as a musician.
Swift keeps the tone upbeat for tracks “22” and “Stay Stay Stay,” but slows it down a bit for her typical love songs. “All Too Well,” “Treacherous” and “Sad Beautiful Tragic” include some of the best lyrics of the album and show off Swift’s writing skills. With the quiet acoustic guitar and soft piano, listeners are able to focus more on her lyrics.
In “All Too Well,” Swift sings the line, “so casually cruel in the name of being honest,” describing how much the truth can hurt. This is a premier example of Swift’s new-found ability to sing softer songs, like “Teardrops on My Guitar,” without needing to bring in her love life.
Swift also included collaborations on “Red,” the first with British singer-songwriter Ed Sheeran titled “Everything Has Changed,” and the second with Snow Patrol’s lead singer, Gary Lightbody, titled “The Last Time.” Although Swift has collaborated in the past, she has never included duets on her own albums. Swift is extending into the music industry.
Even though she strays from her usual genre, Swift keeps her lyrics enjoyable. While each song has its own unique sound and message, Swift’s feelings can easily be felt through the lyrics in each track. Swift relays intense emotion through her songs, which is one reason she has so many fans.
“Red” proves that Swift is taking chances with new sounds and genres. “Red” is available in stores nationwide and on iTunes for $14.99.
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