Early singles ("Heat Waves", "It's All So Incredibly Loud") teased so much promise of something new, fresh, fun, and even personal. But outside of a few initial standouts ("Your Love (De Ja Vu)"), there didn't seem to be much else of great substance. Listening through was a fun spin, but it's best to temper the expectations.

This is Taylor's most mature album since ever. And her best one since 1989.

It's more indie than pop. You can hear Aaron Dessner clearly in the productions. The resulting songs are what The National might sound like if Matt Berninger wasn't so damn sad all the time.

"the last great american dynasty", "exile", and "peace" are clear standouts. Bon Iver elevates the latter two tracks with his contributions.

It would rate even higher and listen more cohesively ... read more

The first third of the album stands out high above the rest.