1989 marks a clear departure from Taylor Swift’s country roots. Here, she dives headfirst into a vibrant, '80s-inspired pop sound. The album opens strong with tracks like "Welcome to New York," which sets the stage for a bold new chapter in her career. It’s glossy, sleek, and full of catchy hooks that get stuck in your head. There’s a lot of personality here, especially in songs like "Blank Space," where she embraces the tabloids’ version of her love life with a wink and a nod. The production is all shimmering synths and infectious beats. It's hard not to groove along, even if you don’t usually gravitate toward pop.

That said, 1989 doesn’t feel as deep as her earlier works. Written solo at 19 (and famously so), give or take a year, Swift's triumph Speak Now reached a greater emotional depth than the profoundest 1989 track (it's the Imogen Heap–inspired "Clean"). Hit singles like "Shake It Off" and "Bad Blood" are undeniably fun but lean more toward anthemic pop than emotional storytelling. There's no denying the album’s commercial appeal and energy—at times it feels like Swift is more focused on crafting the perfect pop single than exploring new emotional territory. Still, it’s clear she’s found a sound that works for her, so if you’re into infectious pop with a touch of nostalgia, 1989 definitely delivers.

Favorite song: "Out of the Woods"