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| Red (c) 2012 Big Machine Records |
Red is a unique album for Swift. In it, she shows a different side of her personality. She embraces new sounds and is not afraid to experiment. The end result is a pleasing one, with her own unique stamp on some songs, and a new flavor on the others.
Here is the track-by-track review:
1. State of Grace: If you had been following the weeks preceding the release of Red, you'd know that this song was released as a promotional single. Sadly, I'm not a fan of this song. I found it odd that this was chosen as the opener. It's good, just not wow. I'm not a fan of the overall "airy" sound of this one. Sorry!
2. Red: Now you're talking! This song is definitely one of the biggest highlights of the album. A soft, controlled start, build up and a massive end. Taylor recalls Shania Twain(one of her own idols) on this one. A great, great song which probably will be the next big single.
3. Treacherous: I love Taylor's vocals on this one, soft and breathy, almost a whisper. Very singer-songwriter material. Classic Taylor.
4. I Knew You Were Trouble: Nothing says country-pop crossover better than this song. With her trademark schoolgirl sound, and an awesome hook, this song is a winner. One of my personal favorites on the album.
5. All Too Well: Taylor sticks to her country roots with this songs. Like old times. It takes time to build momentum, but by the end of this rather long song, you're really in the groove of the album. I like that Taylor isn't trying to be someone else and remains true to herself on this one.
6. 22: 22 is Taylor's age, as well as the date of the album's release. And she makes the most of this song, perfectly capturing the essence of youth. With a great beat, fun lyrics and realistic sensibilities, this song is a must listen. Pure pop. If this is a single, it will be a #1 hit. Mark my words. I don't know about you, but I feel 22!
7. I Almost Do: Time to mellow down with a slow romantic ballad. Another treat, this song. It's honest, pure and straightforward, like only Taylor Swift can do. There's nothing much to be said. except it's really good!
8. We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together: Okay, back to crossover time! Possibly the best song on the album. This has already become one of the biggest hits of the year and you've certainly heard it on the radio. With her trademark nerdy schoolgirl style, smart lyrics and awesome guitars, Taylor rules this song. She's on her way to world domination, this girl. (Side note: I would NOT want to be her boyfriend because she would write a stinging song about me after our possible breakup.)
9. Stay Stay Stay: Taylor is one of the driving forces behind the mainstream adoption of country music. That shows up here. The bloodline of the song is clearly country, but the surface sound is pure pop. Almost a genre all its own! Taylor's sweet voice, however, makes this song another fun trip. Listen closely at the end!
10. The Last Time (featuring Gary Lightbody of Snow Patrol): The first of two duets on the album. Gary Lightbody/ Snow Patrol? On a Taylor Swift album? Yep, you heard right. And it works! Another one of Taylor's attempts to prove her versatility. Here, she wanders into alternative territory with this haunting song.
11. Holy Ground: On this one, Taylor takes to the dance floor. On this fast paced, lyric-heavy song, she remembers a dance with someone she once loved. A strong number, just not very memorable.
12. Sad Beautiful Tragic: On this emotional, breathy song, Taylor sings about her favorite subject. What else? Breakups. A "beautiful, tragic love affair".
13. The Lucky One: You can count on Taylor to sing about those people who have everything,but don't have what matters. In this convincing mid tempo song, she pours her heart out. It has a nice sound, but doesn't really do much to stand out.
14. Everything Has Changed (featuring Ed Sheeran): The second duet on the album is really great. Again Taylor attempts something new. Ed Sheeran's presence is refreshing. He has a great voice that blends very well with Taylor's. A very pleasing song!
15. Starlight: Reminded me a little bit of Taylor's "Mine", a similar theme and structure. Of course, it's different enough and a great listen.
16. Begin Again: Another one of my favorites on this album. Perfect way to close off the album. Taylor shows her maturity and songwriting prowess on this one to full effect.
In all, Red is a great album, but for all the hype, it's not that outstanding. It has its shining moments but overall, it ends up as just another typical Taylor Swift album. That said, I think Taylor deserves credit for taking risks, though small and reserved, experimenting with new music styles, and unleashing her fiercer, "red" side for a change. Not just country, this time Taylor takes us through a lot more mainstream-sounding pop, along with a little alternative, indie, blues, punk and soft rock. She sticks to her trademark style, but enters Avril Lavigne territory with some songs. Her signature Girl Next Door image has taken an overhaul. Note the album cover, for instance, her signature is no longer on it, and is replace with a bold, demure font. Swift herself looks reserved and reflective, with lipstick matching the title. All grown up.
As always, her songwriting skills are point-perfect, the execution marvelous. In an industry dominated by females (Gaga, Katy, Rihanna) Taylor does more than enough to stick out AND fit in at the same time. Her crossover attempt more than works, and the success of "We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together" has already proved that. Taylor Swift is no longer a barefoot guitar playing country girl. Now, she's a barefoot guitar playing popstar who also does country. A fantastic listen, with some off moments, but with many memorable songs that will remain in your playlists a very long time.
Best Songs: Red, I Knew You Were Trouble, 22, We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together, Stay Stay Stay, The Last Time, Everything Has Changed, Begin Again.
RATING: ★★★★