Like most of the teenage girls that make up the majority of her audience, Taylor Swift has 99 problems– but a boy is every one of them. The only difference between Swift and her teenage fan base is that her relationships translate into platinum records and Grammy awards.
Similar to the albums that preceded it, her latest entitled “Red,” which was released to the general public on Oct. 22, follows the classic Taylor Swift formula of “guy broke my heart so I must sing about it.” Although critics may discredit Swift for using the same theme throughout her music career, fans will be delighted that “Red” does so in a never-before-heard enthusiastic and charming way. Who knew breaking up can sound so… fun?
The party starts with “22,” a song where Swift moves away from the breakups and listens to her spontaneity– singing of the perfect night to “dress up like hipsters and to have “breakfast at midnight.” The album’s leading track, “We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together” shows Swift’s growth and maturity when it comes to her breakups– where she’s not only rejecting the unlucky guy, but she’s having more fun without him.
“I Knew You Were Trouble,” the album’s fourth (and perhaps best) track on the album takes the classic-pop-country-rock sound that started Swift’s career and expands it to greater lengths by adding a little “wub” to it. Using synthesized vocals and effects on top of her vintage chord progressions on guitar and piano make “Trouble” an instant hit and potential collaboration where the past and present meet the future.
Contrary to her past albums, “Red” overall carries an upbeat tone. While some tracks like “Sad Beautiful Tragic” and “Treacherous” will strum at your heartstrings, the album will not only dry your tears, it will put a smile on your face as you empower yourself with the feeling that you’re the one victorious after the breakup. Although she sticks to main themes musically, “Red” in many ways redefines Taylor Swift as not only an artist but a public figure as well. No longer is she “the girl with the fragile heart,” but she has proven herself to be stronger now than ever.
Whether you’re a huge fan of hers or not, Taylor Swift’s “Red” is a strong album collectively and has the potential to surpass any and all of her past material, making it a clear contender for next year’s Grammys. It’s not hard to enjoy “Red” and it’s not hard to find yourself singing along to almost every song. Good luck however with trying to get these songs out of your head.
The Mesa Press gives Taylor Swift’s “Red” a PERFECT 5/5 rating.