Grab your headphones and feathered headdresses. Taylor Swift has released a new album. 

Titled “The Life of a Showgirl”, this 12-track album has been described by Swift as a “self-portrait” detailing what was going on behind the scenes of her immensely popular “Eras Tour”. 

The first two songs, “Ophelia” and “Elizabeth Taylor” feature Swift lamenting the underbelly of fame amidst references to Hamlet and Elizabeth Taylor’s life respectively.

These songs are great examples of Swift’s work. I only wish they were a little more indirect about their subjects.

“Wi$h Li$t” and “Honey” are both fun listens and clearly inspired by Swift’s fiancé, Travis Kelce. 

I love how these songs show the healthiness of Swift and Kelce’s relationship. It’s a welcome change from some of the more downtrodden relationship themes explored in Swift’s earlier work.

My personal favorite songs from this album are “Father Figure”, “Eldest Daughter”, and of course “The Life of a Showgirl”. They’re quite unique in comparison to other Swift songs, which I love. 

I believe the biggest hits from this album are going to be “Opalite” and “Ruin the Friendship”. They’re perfect for casual Swifties, complete with universally relatable themes and fun lyrics.  

I was unfortunately disappointed by “Actually Romantic”, “Wood”, and “CANCELLED!”. As someone who is not super interested in Swift’s personal life, these songs just don’t stick out to me. Additionally, the lyrics are generally not very creative or interesting. 

Overall, I think this album is receiving too much hate online. The theming is amazing and the songs are super fun. I love all of the pop culture references, they fit in so well with the showgirl theming. 

I’m still a “Folklore” girl, but I can acknowledge that not everything needs incredibly meaningful, thought-provoking lyrics to be good. I’m just glad Taylor is finally happy enough to write silly feel-good songs again.

Note: This review was written using the clean version of “The Life of a Showgirl” album.