By Alexia Poloski – Staff Reporter 

Taylor Swift’s eighth studio album, “Folklore,” was released on July 24, 2020. “Folklore” is an alternative rock/indie folk album that has a cozy feel. 

This was Swift’s most surprising album considering the sudden release and genre change. Swift mostly produces pop albums with catchy beats; however, this wasn’t the case with “Folklore.” The songs are heavily slow-paced compared to past songs. The lyrics were also surprising. They seem to have a deeper meaning that fans can connect to more. 

Another aspect that separates “Folklore” from the rest of Swift’s albums is the fictional love triangle. The songs that touch on the fictional love triangle include “Betty,” “Cardigan,” and “August”. However fans believe that the whole album can connect to the love triangle. “I kind of created characters that I would sort of infuse my emotions into, and it was really fun for me,” Swift said.

“Folklore” also has amazing features and co-writers including Aaron Dessner, Jack Antonoff, Joe Alwyn, and Justin Vernon. However, the only actual feature on the album is Bon Iver on “Exile.” “Exile” is a duo song that captures two sides of a failed relationship. The song is incredibly real and raw, similar to other “Folklore” songs. Other memorable songs of the album include “This Is Me Trying” and “My Tears Ricochet.”

“My Tears Ricochet” with its captivating lyrics and metaphors. One lyric that stands out is, “You had to kill me, but it killed you just the same,” which indicates betrayal and says it in a more graceful and beautiful way. 

“This is Me Trying” is a song about addiction and wasted potential. Swift reveals she wrote this song from the perspective of someone who heavily struggles with their mental health and addiction. The song includes beautiful instrumentals from strings and percussions to create an enthralling melody. 

With “Folklore” Swift wanted to create a very niche vibe. “The folklore world in my head was very woodsy, super forestry, very cottage core, Victorian nightgowns, feather quill, poetry, typewriters,” Swift said. 

Overall, this album is amazing and nothing like anything Swift has ever put out. “Folklore” has captivating lyrics and melodies that pull listeners in for an experience like never before. The album really defined Swift as one of the best lyricists of the 21st century.  

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars