Rating:
* * * *
Those who cringe at the state of pop stars today will find comfort in Taylor Swift. She writes her own songs; Has never featured on a reality TV contest or the Disney Channel, and has yet to be caught topless, knickerless, or in any other state of undress.
No, Swift has made it to the top -
Fearless
spent 11 weeks at number one in America, making it most successful album of this century - through sheer talent and an uncanny ability to write insightful lyrics that belie her young age, while still being age-appropriate. "In your life you'll do things greater than dating the boy on the football team/But I didn't know that at 15," she lightly muses on
Fifteen
.
Billed as a country pop star, Swift's sophomore album is a surprisingly twang-free affair (with the exception of
Our Song
, which is a remnant from her debut album). Even those who shudder at the thought of Shania will find themself drawn in by the perfect pop melodies.
Swift's poetic lyrics are balanced by playful arrangements and her soft, controlled voice. It's a voice that is more than capable of shrill vocal gymnastics, Swift just has the good sense not to do them. A true modern-day marvel.
Joanna Hunkin
The host has been spotted across the Atlantic post-election.