evermore / Taylor Swift / December 11, 2020
- Joshua Yoo
- Dec 23, 2020
- 2 min read
In many ways, ‘evermore’ presents itself as a close companion album to its predecessor ‘folklore,’ from its still folk-esque style, to the elaborately crafted narratives, and even the parallel surprise 24-hour notice of its release. However, it should not be confused as a B-side or inferior project by any means: ‘evermore’ stands on its own as some of Swift’s best material ever.
The tone of the album is less lonely and more warm and contemplative, and Swift manages to subtly push the musical boundaries set by ‘folklore’ in a couple of different directions with ease. Her melding of acoustic and electro instrumentation works seamlessly, especially on the stunning pair of 5/4-time tracks “tolerate it” and “closure,” the irregular rhythms accenting the difficult relationship dynamics Swift first-person narrates. She also mixes in muted influences of country, with the subdued harmonica twang of “cowboy like me” demonstrating the best of the album’s bunch.
Despite the same tight-knit circle of collaborators, and the most features of any of her projects, ‘evermore’ is not as grand or cinematic as many moments on ‘folklore,’ and it often works it in its favor. The subtlety of much of the production arguably allows Swift’s songwriting to shine even brighter, such as the potent simplicity of the bitter, piano-driven “champagne problems,’ or the wistful hopes and reflections shared on the ethereal ‘happiness.’
The stories she both derives from reality and composes from fantasy are truly compelling, and this collection of songs provides listeners another door to escape and to find comfort in. It is no stretch to claim ‘evermore’ as a potentially greater album against its more heralded counterpart.
Best Track(s): tolerate it; evermore; closure; no body, no crime; gold rush; marjorie; champagne problems
Lowlight(s): dorothea, ivy
SCORE: 8/10
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ukxEKY_7MOc
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