THE TORTURED POETS DEPARTMENT
Taylor Swift
What’s the story?
The 11th studio album by the infamous American singer-songwriter Taylor Swift, The Tortured Poets Department, was made available by Republic Records on April 19, 2024. Released that same day was a double album edition called The Anthology, which included a surprise second volume of songs, bringing the total up to 31 tracks of romantic catharsis. Recalling how she “almost had it all”, Swift uncovers hidden truths about her long-standing relationship of six years that ended over the beginning of the ever-successful “The Eras Tour” via motifs of self-awareness, delusion, anger, and humour. This breakup album features a blend of minimalist synth-pop, folk-pop, and chamber pop, with elements of rock and country music. It’s characterised by mid-tempo compositions driven by synthesisers, drum machines, piano, and guitar.
Worth a listen?
While acclaimed as the pinnacle of Swift’s songwriting, the album fails to measure up to the standard set by her previous records, such as folklore and evermore. The album draws inspiration from Swift’s earlier musical eras rather than forging a distinct new identity or sound. The songs are loosely linked by vignettes depicting a tumultuous breakup. The lyrics are almost as messy as the genres of the album, ranging from her neon-pop tracks like “Florida!!!” to folk balladry like “loml”. Though the emotions are melodramatic, akin to Swift’s best work, a more polished version of the album could have ushered her into a new era with greater impact.
RADICAL OPTIMISM
Dua Lipa
The third studio album by English-Albanian singer Dua Lipa, is her first full-length studio album release in four years since Future Nostalgia (2020). Described as a ‘psychedelic-pop-infused tribute to UK rave culture’, it is a record that resonates with the unadulterated delight and contentment found of having clarity in situations, including hard goodbyes and vulnerable beginnings that eventually turned out to be milestones as a result of embracing optimism and composure to navigate through the world’s chaos. Optimism is also packed with truly insidious earworms that take a minute to sink in, but then refuse to release listeners, who will be humming ‘Houdini’ and ‘Training Season’ long after the album ends. In contrast to her previous works, Radical Optimism exudes an effortless charm, presenting a collection of relaxed dance-pop tunes that uplift the mood (‘These Walls’, ‘French Exit’), energise the body (‘End of an Era’, ‘Falling Forever’), all while Dua Lipa gracefully reflects on solo living and personal development with unwavering confidence.
The Summer 2024 Playlist
Welcome to the ultimate soundtrack for your sunny adventures and breezy summer nights! Dive into Natasha Ann Abraham’s curated playlist, which captures the essence of the season through infectious beats, feel-good vibes, and melodies that make you want to dance barefoot in the sand. From laid-back tunes for lazy beach days to energetic anthems for rooftop parties, this playlist will accompany you as you make unforgettable memories. So, grab your sunglasses, crank up the volume, and let the music transport you to the carefree spirit of summer!
Unwritten – Natasha Bedingfield
the boy is mine – Ariana Grande
California Girls – Katy Perry
Espresso – Sabrina Carpenter
Training Season – Dua Lipa
SPOT! – ZICO, JENNIE
End of Beginning – Djo
Put Your Records On – Corinne Bailey Rae
Ribs – Lorde
Love Like This – ZAYN