Courtesy of Wonderland Magazine
Taylor Swift is known for surprising her fans with new projects, so when she posted a picture across social media with the caption, “not a lot going on at the moment,” fans immediately speculated that Swift was up to something. On Thursday, Dec. 10 she announced yet another surprise album titled “Evermore,” scheduled to be released the following day. Her first surprise album, “Folklore,” was released in July. This announcement proved the opposite of what she stated – she really does have a lot going on at the moment!
With 15 tracks, “Evermore” is Swift’s ninth studio album and serves as the unofficial sequel to “Folklore.” It draws on similar genres to its predecessor, such as indie folk and alternative rock, with a little bit of chamber rock, country and pop added in. The songwriting process was also similar, utilizing lyrics to tell stories that are full of color and imagination.
Prior to the release of “Evermore,” Swift announced that she was in the process of re-recording her previous albums. Additionally, she directed and produced a documentary concert titled “Folklore: The Long Pond Studio Sessions” which premiered on Disney+ in November. The documentary follows Swift as she records a live studio version of the album, gives insight into her creative process and explains the meaning and inspiration behind her songs.
“Evermore” has many songs to look forward to, but a there are a few that especially stand out.
“Willow” is the lead single of the album and has a lot to offer. In addition to a remarkable musical arrangement that draws on a mixture of various genres, the song’s lyrics convey the sense of imagination needed for the perfect love story. It’s an ideal song for all the hopeless romantics.
“Champagne Problems” tells the story of a someone planning to propose to their significant other, only to be rejected and heartbroken. Their significant other ultimately feels that the couple was not on the same page about the relationship, leading to regret and sadness.
“‘Tis The Damn Season” hints at two former lovers who reconnect while visiting their hometown for the holidays, only to break each other’s hearts when they have to face reality.
On “No Body, No Crime,” Swift goes back her country roots with additional vocals by the band HAIM. With references to murder, infidelity and revenge, the song has an eerie, bone-chilling feel. It would be a perfect addition to a soundtrack for a murder mystery movie or TV show.
“Ivy” is about a married woman who has an affair behind her husband’s back and worries about the consequences. It serves as a continuation of “Illicit Affairs,” from Swift’s previous album “Folklore,” which also touches on infidelity and broken relationships.
On “Long Story Short,” Swift revels in the peace she feels with her current partner despite her more dramatic past.
“Closure,” as the title suggests, explores a past relationship between two lovers and how they would find a sense of closure sometime after it ended.
Swift teams up with Bon Iver again for “Evermore,” and both artists once again prove their ability to craft heart-wrenching songs together. This ballad makes for an incredible end to the album, transitioning flawlessly from a state of depression and heartbreak to one of hope and comfort.
Overall, “Evermore” is another truly excellent project by Swift. This album indeed deserves the title given by fans and critics as the “cooler little sister” of its predecessor. Swift also shows off her ability to flawlessly combine elements of pop, alternative rock, country and indie folk.
Just days after the release of “Evermore,” fans already started to theorize about a potential third album, setting the stage for a trilogy to occur at some point in the future. Nobody knows exactly what Taylor Swift might come up with in the future, but it is sure to be another excellent addition to her discography.
