With Taylor Swift’s grand surprise, which is her 8th studio album that she released yesterday at midnight, the international music sensation is celebrating whims, dreams, fears and musings. folklore is definitely a record that can be “passed down like folk songs”. As a songwriter, her lyrics are on point, and the stories and intriguing mysteries contained in the sixteen brand new tracks have that vintage, cinematic quality that makes them unique.
Queen of all genres, Taylor seems to be at ease navigating the indie and alternative realm. With collaborations that include Bon Iver (“exile”) and a Lana Del Rey vibe like in her first single “cardigan”, this is one atmospheric work that’s wonderfully made for autumn. It’s the kind of whimsical album I can listen to as I go out for a stroll under the trees on a peaceful August evening drinking my favorite cappuccino, hot cocoa or latte from a nearby coffee shop with a group of friends as we exchange strange, delightful tales about pirates, Saturn and the universe that we have read about in old books.
I’m especially intrigued by the stream of consciousness style of writing Taylor displays in every song lyric, which reminds me of Virginia Woolf novels. The photos she uses for her limited edition album covers successfully lend an atmospheric mood. Some are wondrous, some have an eerie quality, but all are equally unique.
Whether or not you are a Swiftie, folklore is made for all lovers of authentic music and songwriting, old tales and whimsical adventures in fresh, magical gardens. There’s something for everyone.
Applause to Taylor for crafting another imaginative masterpiece! My favorite tunes are “invisible string”, “illicit affairs”, “the last great american dynasty”, “cardigan”, “peace”, “my tears ricochet”, “hoax” and “august”. Let me know yours.
Cappuccino with Jules 