All Songs Considered
New Music Friday: Taylor Swift's 'Tortured Poets' and the best albums out April 19
Apr 19, 2024
NPR critics Ann Powers and Hazel Cills discuss Taylor Swift's new album 'The Tortured Poets Department' and highlight other notable album releases. They explore Swift's vulnerable songwriting, Pearl Jam's intense new album, and commend Stephanie Lambert's courage in music.
50:24
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Quick takeaways
- Taylor Swift's 'The Tortured Poets Department' showcases her sharp personal songwriting and vulnerability in themes of love and fame.
- Baby Mother's 'Sleep Paralysis' album presents a fresh, danceable sound influenced by UK garage and horror movie imagery.
Deep dives
Taylor Swift's Album: A Return to Sharp Personal Songwriting
Taylor Swift's new album, 'The Tortured Poets Department,' showcases a return to her strong suit of sharp personal songwriting. Collaborating with Jack Antonoff and Erin Desner, the album is praised for its musicality and coherence. The album delves into themes of complicated love, insecurity, and fame's impact on relationships, presenting a more vulnerable and introspective side of Taylor.
