By Kelsey McAvin
Assistant Arts editor
Olivia Rodrigo’s most recent album, “GUTS,” features captivating and dazzling lyrics. Rodrigo’s long-awaited sophomore album is unique, ambitious, and delightful to listen to, leaving listeners satisfied. Debuted on Sept. 8, “Guts” is the latest studio album released by the American singer-songwriter and actress in the last four years. On June 30, Rodrigo previewed this album by releasing the single “Vampire” on various forms of social media, most popularly TikTok, leaving fans eager for the release of the rest of the album. Although fans had to wait several years for this release, the beautifully crafted album was worth the wait
The album’s lead single, “Vampire,” begins with melancholic piano keys that lead into an upbeat tempo with an exhilarating pace and lyrics that fans can relate to. Rodrigo uses this song to flip the sexist stereotype of female gold diggers, using emotional, heartfelt lyrics that resonate with younger generations who are alert to abuses of power.
“Bad Idea, Right,” the album’s second single, provides listeners with a story of Rodrigo’s reckless behavior as she sneaks off to an ill-advised meet-up. Rodrigo deviates from her usual singing style in this song, which surprises and excites fans. The chorus repeats “blah blah blah,” drowning out the voice of reason and allowing the song to succumb to the thrills of delusion. Rodrigo’s unique artistic ideas are por- trayed most clearly in this album, leaving her devoted fans excited and coming back for more.
One of the album’s most popular songs, “The Grudge,” has a complex history behind it. The lyrics stood out to fans as reminiscent of her feud with singer Taylor Swift, but Rodrigo denied these rumors, claiming she just enjoys writing songs about fan- tasies. This single is raw, emotional, and Rodrigo is praised for the vulnerability and honesty in the lyrics.
The cover of the album perfectly accompanies the diverse collection of songs included in the work. The simple decoration and the purple color scheme of the album cover adds to Rodrigo’s original style.
In spite of the originality of the songs in “Guts,” many listeners find Rodrigo’s relationship-centered lyrics tiresome. Rodrigo consistently creates songs about her romantic endeavors and social anxiety, highlighting her recurring problems with the same relationships. Many eager fans were left extremely disappointed by the similarity between “GUTS” and her prior album, “Sour.” However, these few com- plaints are easily overruled by the posi- tives.
The use of spunky lyrics, complex instruments, and high-tempo vocals produced an album filled with songs that are cleverly written. The four-year wait for the album “GUTS” was a small price to pay for its spectacular release. Rodrigo was able to surpass already high expectations with her creative, bold, and varied lyrics and songs.
Rodrigo uses a variety of instruments to complement her unforgettable vocals. The up-tempo beat of the songs perfectly ac- companies the boldness of her lyrics, leaving fans listening on repeat.
The album was released on Sept. 8 and is available to stream on all streaming platforms including Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube Music, Pandora, and iHeart. For more information, visit oliviarodrigo.com.
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