Category: Reviews
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Angel Olsen Summons an Orchestra for Sharp ‘All Mirrors’
None of Angel Olsen’s records sound the same, and her fourth full-length carries the singer/songwriter further off the grid than ever. The fervent crunch of 2016’s My Woman and gentle unease of 2014’s Burn Your Fire For No Witness are nonexistent on All Mirrors, a release relished in orchestral rock and art pop. Multiple expertly…
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Lana Del Rey’s New Album is the Most Artistic of Her Career
Those listening to Lana Del Rey solely for leisurely head bops might be turned off by the stripped down production, but Born to Die diehards shouldn’t overlook her new chapter. Norman F***ing Rockwell! serves as an example of the sadcore star’s growth as an artist, replacing slow-paced loungy rhythms with piano sections and an even…
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Taylor Swift’s ‘Lover’ Isn’t as Bad as its Singles, But it’s Not Great
Pop’s biggest name is back with her seventh studio release amidst an ongoing war with her previous label, Big Machine. This is Taylor Swift’s first album released by Republic, but that doesn’t stop similarities between this and her other works from sitting in plain sight. Lover is overdosed with breakup songs and the occasional love…
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Carly Rae Jepsen’s ‘Dedicated’ is Pop Music at its Cutest
In 2015, Carly Rae Jepsen exceeded all expectations with the delicious pop album Emotion. Despite being a commercial failure that didn’t reach the popularity of “Call Me Maybe”, the LP was a critical hit that instantly gathered a cult following. On the new Dedicated, the Canadian singer unloads more of the best pop songs you…
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Taylor Swift Hits Rock Bottom With Tacky New Music Video
Taylor Swift tried to label herself as a wannabe badass on 2017’s Reputation, but the black lipstick and punk girl attire seem behind her upon the release of her new song and video, “ME!” Many may be relieved to hear Swift’s no longer struggling to reach for the “bad girl” status, but her new schtick…
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Jade Bird’s Debut Is Loud & Energetic, But Not As Much As It Should Be
Despite relying on an acoustic guitar, 21-year-old Jade Bird still finds ways to shred on her debut album. Some songs are general lighthearted breakup tunes, but when the instrumentation crescendos, Jade Bird soars. The self-titled LP begins on a so-so note with “Ruins”, but her slight vocal uppercuts are a sign of things to come.…