Review: ‘1989’ reveals new voice of Taylor Swift

I have been a die hard Taylor Swift fan since 2006 when she released her self-titled debut studio album. A lot has changed since my 8-year-old self discovered music — including Swift’s music genre. Her new album, 1989, marks the full transition from country sweetheart to peppy pop star.

Released on Oct. 27, 1989 has been burning up the charts — and for good reason. Swift seems to be completely recreating her image, and she’s doing it quite successfully.

1989 kicks off with “Welcome to New York,” an uplifting track with catchy lyrics and a great electric beat. While it’s not my favorite track on the album, it definitely introduces us to Swift’s new music style.

Her first single from the album, “Shake It Off,” has been on repeat since the day it was released. I’m in love with the catchy beat and uplifting message. It makes me want to get up and dance like nobody’s watching. The track truly shows off her ability to make a great pop song.

1989’s second single, “Out Of The Woods,” is not nearly as impressive because of its repetitiveness, but it does reveal some influence from various music styles and has a unique sound that really captures how Swift is expanding as a musician.

My favorite part of this album is how her lyrics reflect her growth as a person. Whereas her older songs like “You Belong With Me” and “Better Than Revenge” have torn girls down for what they wear and the decisions they make, her new songs present her as the current feminist she claims to be.

Overall, 1989 is one of the most masterfully executed pop albums I’ve ever heard. I didn’t think it was possible to have a pop album that still sounded like the Taylor Swift I’ve always loved, but she has proved her talent to the world once again. As a Swift fan of eight years, I can honestly tell you that 1989 is like nothing she’s ever done before, and it’s my favorite to date.

Rating: 9/10