Midnights Full Album Reaction and Breakdown

Hosts Cameron and Lisa of the "Swiftly Spoken" podcast delve into Taylor Swift's "Midnights" album, offering their candid reactions and rankings of the standard 13 tracks. They examine the sonic surprises and lyrical depth, starting with the opener "Lavender Haze," which initially overwhelmed them. They explore its thematic portrayal of media scrutiny and relationship pressures. The hosts also discuss "Maroon," appreciating its darker tone and complex emotionality, and "Anti-Hero," highlighting Taylor's vulnerability masked by catchy pop beats. They touch on "Snow on the Beach," expressing slight disappointment with Lana Del Rey's subtle feature but praising the song's lyricism. "You're on Your Own, Kid" sparks debate over its fit as a track five, while "Midnight Rain" resonates as a reflection on past choices. "Question...?" and "Vigilante Shit" are noted for their direct references to past relationships and experiences. "Bejeweled" stands out as a confident pop return, and "Labyrinth" offers a softer, introspective moment. The hosts conclude with "Mastermind," admiring its revelation of calculated romance, and share their evolving top five song rankings from the album.

• Cameron and Lisa host the podcast Swiftly Spoken, focusing on Taylor Swift's music.
• The episode centers on the standard 13 tracks of the "Midnights" album, providing reactions, analyses, and a top-five ranking.

"hello and welcome to swiftly spoken a family Taylor Swift podcast in which we break down her lyrics Deep dive into full album retrospectives and theorize about what may be coming next as always we are your host Cameron and Lisa and in this episode we're going to be giving our reactions to the standard 13 tracks of the midnights album as well as breaking them down and ranking our top five."

The quote introduces the podcast and its focus on Taylor Swift's music, particularly the "Midnights" album in this episode.

• Cameron initially felt overwhelmed by "Lavender Haze," not favoring it at first.
• Lisa found it good on the first listen, noting its similarity to the "Lover" album.
• Both hosts agree that the song grew on them over time.
• They discuss the bridge's lyrics and how they address media scrutiny of Taylor's relationship.
• "Lavender Haze" is seen as a comfortable yet overwhelming haze that sets the scene for the album.

"so my first thoughts upon hearing lavender Hayes firstly it hit me like a truck because we had no idea sonically what this was going to sound like so I did feel a little bit overwhelmed and I have to say that until my recent re-listenings to the album that lavender Hayes wasn't a favorite at first like I kind of wasn't into it really which I know is very unpopular opinion since people are absolutely loving this song."

Cameron describes the initial overwhelming experience of hearing "Lavender Haze" and how his opinion changed after multiple listenings.

• "Maroon" intrigued both hosts due to its announcement and color association with "Red."
• Lisa loved the song's darker tone, while Cameron was impressed after a more awake listening.
• They analyze the lyrics, noting the dark and toxic aspects of love.
• The song is seen as revisiting the color red with a new perspective and reflecting on past relationships.
• "Maroon" is associated with deeper, lasting impacts, akin to a darker night sky.

"Scarlett the y in the burgundy rubies the sky. and then all leading up to Maroon which as you said just in itself the fact that this song is literally track two just like red was and it is red but tinged with all the darkness of it of looking back and saying actually no that was pretty. you know it was pretty bad actually it wasn't just burning toxic color."

The hosts discuss the rich imagery and symbolism in "Maroon," drawing parallels to the album "Red" and the complex emotions associated with the color.

• "Anti-Hero" surprised Cameron due to its pop sound despite being about insecurities.
• Lisa enjoyed the song's catchiness and the vulnerability of the lyrics.
• They highlight the lyric about preferring to look at the sun rather than in the mirror as particularly poignant.
• The song's bridge, dealing with self-deprecation and humor, stood out to both.
• "Anti-Hero" is seen as setting the tone for the album with confessional lyrics paired with a pop sound.

"well it definitely surprised me because when she's kind of describing it to you. and she's like yes this is this guided tour through my insecurities and some of the things that really go on in my head. and I was thinking oh my God. it's going to be such a stripped back kind of song track five this should be true in a way."

Cameron expresses surprise at the pop sound of "Anti-Hero" given its introspective content, which contrasts with the expected stripped-back style.

• Lisa initially labels "Snow on the Beach" as the worst song on the album.
• Cameron defends the song, discussing Lana Del Rey's role as a backing vocal feature.
• They compare Lana's feature to previous collaborations where the featured artist had a more prominent role.
• The hosts talk about the trend of backing vocal features and the expectation for more significant contributions.

"right so I'm a defense Squad this this for this song. so right. yeah there's a lot to be he said for this song. right I think we should start off with the elephant in the room or the person who wasn't really in the room for too long in the room so Lana herself obviously a big thing that everyone's talking about is that even though Alana is a feature she has been relegated to more of a backing vocal type of feature"

Cameron begins to defend "Snow on the Beach" and addresses the controversy surrounding Lana Del Rey's limited role in the song as a backing vocalist.

(Note: The transcript provided was cut off and did not include the full conversation; therefore, the notes end at the last fully available point of discussion.)

• Cameron and Lisa discuss the oddity of an artist not being credited as a feature despite being heard clearly in a song.
• They find it strange that Jack is not credited as a feature while Maren Morris and Lana Del Rey are, despite all being audibly present in the song.
• Lisa expresses disappointment, feeling that the song could have been a significant moment if the feature had been more prominent, similar to Phoebe Bridgers' feature in "Nothing New."

"Early and he's not doing the feature I know it's so weird because you can hear him just as much as you can hear Maron Morris and Lana Del Rey but he's not deemed a feature when those two are it is strange it is strange."

The quote highlights the discrepancy in how artists are credited on songs, with Cameron and Lisa noting that Jack's contribution is as significant as that of Maren Morris and Lana Del Rey, yet he is not listed as a feature.

• Lisa feels let down by the execution of a collaboration between artists she admires, expecting a more dynamic musical interaction.
• They compare the collaboration to the synergy found in the song "Nothing New" by Phoebe Bridgers, where the vocal interplay was particularly effective.

"It could have really been a moment if those two have properly had a like a nothing new Phoebe Bridges kind of feature and the way that they play each other off especially in the bridge of nothing new is so gorgeous and so clever and their vocals just like sink perfectly."

Lisa discusses the missed opportunity for a powerful musical moment, using Phoebe Bridgers' feature as an example of what she hoped to see in the collaboration she's referring to.

• Despite initial disappointment, Lisa appreciates the song's lyrics and production, particularly praising the producer Jack for creating an ambiance that reflects the song's theme.
• Cameron and Lisa discuss the song "Snow on the Beach," noting the clever lyricism and the atmospheric production that evokes the imagery of snow falling.

"The production is absolutely beautiful it sounds like snow falling Jack you did so. well uh he did so. well it sounds like snow is falling it has the little like Jingle Bell Evermore sounds to it."

Lisa compliments the producer's ability to create a soundscape that matches the song's theme, comparing it to the sound of snow falling and linking it to the aesthetic of Taylor Swift's "Evermore" album.

• Lisa prefers the clean version of a song, feeling that explicit language can sometimes detract from the song's beauty.
• They discuss the unique and evocative lyrics in the song, highlighting the use of phrases like "Aurora Borealis green."

"The only thing that I would say is weird but beautiful I don't know something about it just I wish that she the clean version was the standard because I actually prefer that."

Lisa explains her preference for the clean version of the song, suggesting that the absence of explicit language better suits the song's delicate aesthetic.

• Cameron and Lisa acknowledge that personal preferences influence their opinions on songs, and that their least favorite songs on an album are not necessarily bad songs.
• They discuss the song "Maroon" and how it doesn't resonate with them as much as other songs do.

"It's not that it's not a good song it's just that through. oh no. it's a great song I love it. and I've listened to it. but. yeah. for me I don't know it's not giving it unlike songs like Maroon like we've said right especially if you certainly want to go back to."

Cameron clarifies that even though a song might not be their favorite, it doesn't mean it's not a good song, and that the comparison is relative to other tracks on the album.

• Lisa attempts to convince Cameron that the song "You're on Your Own, Kid" deserves its place as track five on Taylor Swift's album, a slot traditionally reserved for emotionally vulnerable songs.
• They discuss the pressure and expectations surrounding track five due to its historical significance in Taylor Swift's discography.

"For midnight that track is you're on your own kid so obviously this had a lot to live up to with some Titans of track five you've got you know my tennis Ricochet all too well dear John you know some pretty big old tracks in there to compete up against."

Cameron acknowledges the significance of track five in Taylor Swift's albums and the high standards set by previous songs that have occupied this position.

• Lisa feels that "You're on Your Own, Kid" encapsulates a different type of vulnerability than previous track fives, providing comfort and reassurance.
• They discuss how the song reflects on Taylor Swift's life, comparing past and present experiences.

"It explores yes a very different kind of vulnerability it explores I mean really for me it feels like that this track 5 is kind of wrapping its arms around all of the previous track fives and being like it's. okay. it's gonna be okay."

Lisa interprets the song as a comforting message that connects with the themes of vulnerability in Taylor Swift's earlier track fives, offering a sense of solace.

• Cameron and Lisa discuss the song "Midnight Rain" and its reflection on Taylor Swift's pre-fame life and the choices she made in pursuit of her career.
• They explore the theme of choosing a different path from the expected norm and the implications of fame on one's life.

"I think this is the song like we were speaking about um where she looks back like where the midnights are obviously this is a a recent midnight. but I think it's the one that looks back farthest in time."

Cameron reflects on the song "Midnight Rain" as an introspective look at Taylor Swift's journey from her roots to her current status, highlighting the personal and temporal depth of the song.

• The song "Question..." is discussed for its use of elements from "Out of the Woods," suggesting a connection between the two songs and their subjects.
• Cameron and Lisa speculate on whether "Out of the Woods" has been re-recorded, given its use in "Question..."

"Question which is really interesting kind of interpolates or uses part of out of the woods with that. yeah. I remember at the start."

Lisa points out the intertextual use of lyrics from "Out of the Woods" in "Question...," indicating a deliberate choice by Taylor Swift to connect the songs and potentially their narratives.

• Cameron and Lisa appreciate Taylor Swift's candidness in her songwriting, especially when she references specific individuals or events.
• They discuss the balance between being direct in lyrics and maintaining respect for the subjects of the songs.

"People say enough stuff about her so she can say whatever the hell she likes about other people. yeah."

Cameron supports Taylor Swift's right to express herself in her music, especially in response to public scrutiny and the narratives created by others about her personal life.

• Cameron and Lisa discuss how personal lyrics in music can make songs more relatable to listeners.
• They note that specific and personal references in lyrics can evoke a sense of reading someone's diary.
• The more personal the songs are, the more listeners can find aspects of their own experiences reflected in the music.

"Yeah the more personal her songs are weirdly the more relatable they are because it's like other people have experienced that and gone through similar things with similar people."

The quote highlights the paradox that while a song may be deeply personal to the artist, its specificity can resonate with a broad audience by touching on universal experiences.

• The conversation shifts to discussing the song "Question" and how it embodies an addictive quality that draws listeners back.
• They appreciate the detailed songwriting and production, which they find reminiscent of Taylor Swift's album "1989."
• The song is seen as a continuation of past themes but with a more mature perspective.

"It reflects the way that she writes is so good that obviously in this one it's much more purposeful but the way that it the themes that you know appear on it and the way that it's written is so reminiscent of 1989 that it works so well."

The quote emphasizes the skillful songwriting that allows for thematic continuity with past work while also showcasing growth and a more mature outlook.

• The theme of growth and maturity is prevalent in the album "Midnights," as discussed by Cameron and Lisa.
• They observe that the songs convey a sense of personal development and life experience compared to earlier works.
• The album is seen as a reflection on past parts of life with a newfound maturity.

"So I really really love that. And I think that's a recurring theme definitely in midnights it's this kind of like reminiscence um but with a massive sense of maturity and way more life experience than the person that originally wrote those songs."

The quote reflects on the album's overarching theme of looking back on life with increased maturity and understanding.

• The participants discuss the collaborative nature of music production, particularly on the song "Question."
• They mention the inclusion of friends and collaborators, such as Dylan O'Brien, Jack Antonoff, and Taylor Swift's brother Austin, in the production process.
• The use of natural sounds and personal touches in the studio is highlighted.

"And the people who are clapping and doing the Clapping are Dylan O'Brien Jack Antonoff Taylor Austin her brother."

This quote underlines the personal and collaborative aspect of music production, where friends and fellow artists contribute to the creation of a track.

• Cameron and Lisa delve into the lyrics and themes of "Vigilante," noting its connection to the concept of revenge.
• They discuss the explicit and clean versions of lyrics and how they impact the song's message.
• The song is characterized by its powerful and vengeful narrative.

"And she said you know what I've got more to say once again I've got something else to say um."

The quote captures the essence of "Vigilante" as a song that continues to explore the theme of revenge with a bold and assertive tone.

• The conversation touches on the song "Bejeweled" and its representation of Taylor Swift's return to pop music.
• They discuss the feeling of empowerment that the song conveys and its connection to overcoming self-doubt.
• The song is also seen as a celebration of personal shimmer and capability.

"I love that Taylor kind of has said that it it was almost like about returning to pop music and her kind of fears of like. Oh my gosh I've been in writing all these folk songs I've been in this metaphorical words and now I'm about to do pop."

This quote discusses the artist's journey of returning to a genre they are known for after experimenting with different styles, reflecting confidence and versatility in their craft.

• "Labyrinth" is discussed as a song that contrasts with the preceding track, "Bejeweled," due to its emotional depth.
• The song's production is praised for its ability to evoke a sense of stillness before a revelation of falling in love.
• The participants express their personal connection to "Labyrinth" and its powerful lyrics.

"And then suddenly oh no. I'm falling in love and I don't know it's just so good in between all of this that's going on I thought the plane was going down how did you turn it back around."

The quote captures a moment of emotional clarity within the song, where amidst chaos, the protagonist experiences the unexpected onset of love.

• Ownership of negative labels can lead to empowerment and financial success.
• Taking control of a narrative can boost confidence.
• Public pressure often forces individuals to act unaffected by criticism.
• Acknowledging the impact of negative attention is important for mental health.

"I am the snake I've taken ownership of it. and I've made Millions out of it now."

This quote demonstrates the empowerment that comes from owning and repurposing a negative label for personal gain and self-confidence.

• Public narratives can be shaped by edited and manipulated information.
• The truth often emerges after significant time has passed.
• Attempting to correct false narratives can lead to being labeled a liar.
• The revelation of the truth can vindicate those who were unfairly judged.

"I'm so glad that full video came out... she was telling the truth the entire time."

This quote highlights the relief and vindication that comes when the truth is finally revealed after a person has been misjudged based on manipulated evidence.

• "Karma" is interpreted as a positive, rather than negative, concept.
• The song suggests living well as the best response to adversaries.
• It emphasizes the idea that enemies will defeat themselves.
• The track has a self-referential and intertextual quality, connecting to previous works.

"It's the epitome of your enemies will defeat themselves before you can even swing."

This quote encapsulates the message of the song "Karma," suggesting that focusing on one's own life and success is the best form of revenge.

• "Sweet Nothing" is reminiscent of the "folklore" album.
• It's a love song that fits seamlessly into the album's narrative.
• The song features domestic imagery and a sense of contentment.
• The bridge and its lyrics are highlighted as particularly impactful.

"The Domesticity of the pebble does it Miss."

This quote refers to a specific, evocative lyric from "Sweet Nothing" that captures the intimate and understated nature of love portrayed in the song.

• Joe Alwyn's contributions to songwriting are appreciated.
• The creative process behind the collaboration is speculated upon.
• The piano-based songs suggest Alwyn's influence on the music.

"William Bowery has my heart yes once again."

This quote expresses admiration for Joe Alwyn's (William Bowery) songwriting abilities and his creative synergy with Taylor Swift.

• "Mastermind" explores themes of fate versus strategic planning in relationships.
• The song references past works and continues the narrative of being an architect of one's own life.
• The bridge of the song is noted for its emotional depth.

"If I told you none of this was accidental I planned it all."

This quote from "Mastermind" reveals the song's central idea that the narrator has intentionally orchestrated events in their life, challenging the notion of serendipity.

• The album "Midnights" is praised for its cohesive track listing and thematic consistency.
• The standard edition of the album ends on a strong note with "Mastermind."
• The 3am tracks from the deluxe edition are expected to influence favorite song rankings.
• The album is considered a high-quality body of work with impressive lyrical and sonic elements.

"Midnights is perfect... I wouldn't change anything about it."

This quote summarizes the overall positive reception of the album "Midnights," emphasizing its well-crafted track listing and thematic execution.