Prepare to be captivated by Olivia Rodrigo’s sophomore album, “Guts,” which came out on Sept. 8. This mesmerizing musical journey showcases her artistic progress and reveals a brave vulnerability that will resonate with listeners. “Guts” is a worthwhile addition to any music lover’s playlist, offering a collection of songs that connect deeply with audiences from all walks of life.
“The Grudge”
Rodrigo’s delivery of the lyrics is presented in a gentle tone in the beginning, but as the song progresses, Rodrigo’s voice intensifies, particularly in the line “and I try to be tough, but I wanna scream.” The second chorus stands out with the line “But you know I can’t let it go, I’ve tried, I’ve tried, I’ve tried for so long,” conveying emotions more profoundly and leaving a lingering sense of uncertainty about forgiveness in the face of hate and anger.
“Pretty Isn’t Pretty”
“Pretty Isn’t Pretty” is a powerful statement on society’s standards put on women’s physical beauty. Rodrigo digs into the disappointment felt while attempting to adapt to these expectations, emphasizing the significance of opposing the unreasonable norms imposed on individuals. The chorus aptly captures the internal struggle to feel confident amidst comparisons such as “I could change up my body and change up my face / I could try every lipstick in every shade.” Nevertheless, the song ultimately encourages listeners to embrace their unique qualities and defy societal beauty standards because “pretty isn’t pretty enough.”
“Logical”
“Logical” features a captivating chorus that showcases Rodrigo’s lyrical prowess. In the chorus, she sings twisted facts such as “Two plus two equals five” and “The sky is green, the grass is red,” emphasizing the distortion caused by manipulation. Therefore, she asks herself, “Why didn’t I stop it all?” This thought-provoking song reminds us that love and emotions often defy logical explanations, capturing the universal struggle of finding equilibrium between the mind and heart.
“Teenage Dream”
“Teenage Dream” opens with a series of burning questions: “When am I gonna stop being wise beyond my years and just start being wise? / When am I gonna stop being a pretty young thing to guys? / When am I gonna stop being great for my age and just start being good? / When will it stop being cool to be quietly misunderstood?” These lyrics evoke a sense of curiosity and reflect the transformative and bewildering nature of adolescence. The song ends on a question mark, leaving listeners on the precipice of an unknown future. It encourages them to embrace the present moment and embark on new chapters.
“Guts” encompasses a diverse range of songs that serve as anthems of empowerment and resilience. Whether you are looking for reflection, inspiration, or simply a relatable musical experience, “Guts” delivers a poignant and profound trip that enthralls and uplifts.
