Full Review

Taylor Swift, Midnights (The Til Dawn Edition) Review

Taylor Swift’s latest offering, Midnights (The Til Dawn Edition), is a bold excursion into a nocturnal palette of slower tempos and hushed atmosphere, encapsulating Swift’s evolution and experimentation within the pop music sphere.

Swift’s meticulous and emotive writing shines through most clearly in the track “Hits Different.” This heartbreak narrative is a poignant testimony to Swift’s ability to capture complex emotions in relatable ways. She details the pain of watching an ex-lover move on, an experience that ‘hits different’ and resonates with anyone who has suffered a similar loss.

In contrast, “Lavender Haze” falls short. While Swift’s voice carries the song with its beauty, the lo-fi sounds and drum beat feel generic, detracting from the overall appeal. The lyrics need more depth and introspection that Swift’s fans have come to expect, making this track a less captivating offering.

The production on Midnights (The Til Dawn Edition) is a mix of classic Swift elements and new directions. “Snow On The Beach,” a collaboration with Lana Del Rey, is a highlight. The extended version of the track allows for a harmonious blend of both artists’ styles. Swift and Del Rey’s voices are balanced and easy to hear, their dreamy vocals floating over a minimalist background of subtly blended acoustic and electronic instruments. This track is a less-is-more approach to the power of production in enhancing the listener’s experience.

“Vigilante Shit” offers a curious mixture of production elements, leaving room for potential enhancements. The production shines in the robust, full-bodied bass drum that anchors the track but falls short with the thin snare sound that lacks the necessary punch. The vocal harmonies are well-layered and harmoniously integrated, and the synth sounds draw from the EDM genre. However, a more aggressive ‘wobble’ and increased intensity could have given the track an extra bite, transforming it into a dynamic, engaging powerhouse.

The “Karma” remix featuring Ice Spice is an intriguing addition to the album. While Swift personifies karma, creating a dual image of a comforting presence and a brutal force, Ice Spice’s contribution overshadows Swift. This dynamic raises questions about the balance between the prominent artist and the guest, prompting a deeper exploration of the interplay between their respective lyrical contributions.

In terms of lyrics, Swift’s reputation as a gifted songwriter is well-established. However, in Midnights (The Til Dawn Edition), she struggles between her desire to evolve as an artist and the need to stick to her classic, winning formula. Some tracks, like “Hits Different,” showcase her ability to capture complex emotions in relatable ways. Others, like “Karma,” fall short of her usually high standard, with lyrics that feel less personal and more clichéd.

In conclusion, Midnights (The Til Dawn Edition) documents Swift’s daring spirit and her continuous exploration of new musical territories. Despite its shortcomings, the album marks an important milestone in Swift’s ever-evolving career. It offers moments of brilliance in both production and songwriting, showcasing Swift’s willingness to take risks and evolve as an artist. While it may not resonate with all listeners, it is certainly worth a listen for its few hits and the glimpses it offers into Swift’s artistic journey. That’s the short of it!