Olivia Rodrigo's
Guts is a stunning mess of emotional chaos wrapped in indie-rock vibes, and it feels like she's spent the last two years figuring out how to take her heartbreak and turn it into a whole new art form. The album's a little more self-aware than 2021's
Sour—it's not just about crying over a breakup anymore; it's about navigating the messy, unpredictable experience of growing up. Tracks like "Vampire" and "Bad Idea Right?" are pure emotional rollercoasters that blend angst with a deep sense of reflection. She's grown, but she's still questioning everything: herself, her choices, and, of course, those annoying people who've messed with her along the way. The lyrics are razor-sharp, not afraid to poke fun at her own confusion while managing to hit you right in the gut (pun intended).
What sets
Guts apart from her debut is how unafraid Olivia is to play with her sound. The album ranges from indie-rock anthems to folky, stripped-back moments that showcase her raw vulnerability. "Lacy" feels like a confession, while "Get Him Back!" plays like an over-the-top tantrum, showing just how far she's willing to go in both emotional extremes and musical experimentation. The production is lush and often dark, with flourishes of alt-rock that hint at everything from Tori Amos to early 2000s pop-punk. If
Sour was a diary,
Guts is a scrapbook of emotional growth: messy, complicated, and sometimes even a little funny—just like being a teenager trying to figure out who the hell she is.
Favorite song:
"So American"