Unexpected pop culture news is sometimes a good thing, and other times it takes us by surprise (good or bad). When the latter happens, as a writer, sometimes I stop and think, do I want to write about this unexpected social news? Or should I let it slip past? Does it even matter now that it’s “old news”? Does anyone care about a write up? Depends on what the news is (if it pertains to what I primarily write about), but usually, I go ahead and share, because why not? Today the news is about something called ‘Folklore,’ by someone named Taylor Swift.
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Last time Taylor Swift released an album I wrote two-three posts about ‘Lover’ because it had been a long time since we heard the “old” Taylor and I was excited to hear songs from her that best represent what fans know her as. For the most part, ‘Lover’ accomplishes this. Today she announced she’s releasing a surprise new album. In true Taylor Swift fashion, this isn’t just a new single or EP, it’s a full-length eight studio album.
Speaking of ‘Lover,’ given what we see about ‘Folklore,’ this album looks very different. It looks whimsical and maybe “moody,” too. Even the titles of the songs feel different. It reminds me of the “look” of ‘Red,’ arguably THE album that marks the transition from country to pop star. Makes one wonder if ‘Folklore’ will have a bit of a “root-y” sound. Here’s what Taylor says about this album:
Surprise. Tonight at midnight I’ll be releasing my 8th studio album, folklore; an entire brand new album of songs I’ve poured all of my whims, dreams, fears, and musings into.
folklore will have 16 songs on the standard edition, but the physical deluxe editions will include a bonus track “the lakes.” Because this is my 8th studio album, I made 8 deluxe CDs & 8 deluxe vinyls available for 1 week.
Each has unique covers & photos. – Taylor Swift
Like I said, all of this is in typical fashion as only Taylor Swift can go about this. The photos are artsy and fit the titles of the songs, but whether or not they’ll fit the mood, time will tell. Speaking of those songs, the tracklist is as follows.
- The 1
- Cardigan
- The Last Great American Dynasty
- Exile
- My Tears Ricochet
- Mirrorball
- Seven
- August
- This is Me Trying
- Illicit Affairs
- Invisible String
- Mad Woman
- Epiphany
- Betty
- Peace
- Hoax
- BONUS TRACK: The Lakes
Also, given that “Cardigan” is set to drop a video as well, it would seem it’s to be the first single.
‘Folklore’ is set to release tonight at Midnight (eastern), and while I have thoughts on some of Taylor’s recent comments (and there’s likely more political agendas in these songs), up until now, I still like most of her music. Some I don’t care for or find a bit “out there,” but those I really enjoy get set to “repeat” all the time. Either way, you can bet I’ll be listening to this surprise new album, and yes, I’ll be back in a day or two to share thoughts on these new songs. (Unless they’re, for me, that bad.)
What about YOU; are YOU excited for this new album? Will you be listening? What are you most excited about? Comment all of your ‘Taylor Swift Folklore’ thoughts below.
You can find the album on Taylor’s website.
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What about YOU; are YOU excited for this new album? Will you be listening? What are you most excited about? Comment all of your thoughts below.
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Photos: TaylorSwift.com / Beth Garrabrant
I just started listening to this album. The last great american dynasty is such a haunting song. I love it. :)
Which song is your favourite one?
I like ‘The Last Great American Dynasty’ more and more each time I hear it. It’s VERY much story-driven. I think so far I’m loving ‘Invisible String’ (pretty sure it’s underrated for those looking for stories about Taylor and her beau); ‘My Tears Ricochet’ (for some reason… don’t know why as it’s sad); and ‘The 1’ is kind of a fun more bop-y tune!