Music review: Miley Cyrus’s “Younger Now” and Kesha’s “Rainbowland”
Kesha released her album “Rainbowland” in August with Miley Cyrus following in her release of “Younger Now” in September. Editor Gia Shipman reviewed the overall tone of the album as well as the new styles both artists portrayed in their music.
October 20, 2017
In “Rainbowland” by Kesha, there is a distinct range between each of her songs, from an upbeat pop feel to a feisty rock and roll rebel girl to inspirational and delicate. In “Boogie Feet,” her voice takes a more auto-tuned route with a grunge impression and a strong electric guitar presence. My personal favorite song of the album is “Praying.” This song takes on a different sound from the others with the beautiful piano chords highlighting Kesha’s voice belting out powerful lyrics on forgiveness and her new outlook on life. Dolly Parton has a feature in Kesha’s song “Old Flames (Can’t Hold a Candle to Us),” and provides a country vibe.
Miley Cyrus’s new album, “Younger Now,” also includes a feature song with Dolly Parton, “Rainbowland”. Her new album takes me back to Cyrus’s teenage-self, with older twangy country music, yet with a modern feel. Each song expresses intense emotions, whether they might be anger, disappointment, loneliness or love. Her most popular song from the album is “Malibu.” This is a soothing and relaxing song that builds up emotions through the entirety of the song. It makes me want to stand next to the ocean under the blue sky, as Cyrus says herself.
“Malibu” is definitely my favorite song to sing to in my car. “Younger Now,” the next most popular song according to Apple Music, talks about the acceptance of change with an upbeat tone. Although this album takes on a new identity for Cyrus, I can hear glimpses of her past music in her recent release.
These new albums represent more than just a group of tracks, but a new image for Kesha and Cyrus. Both of these empowered women show a complete 180 turnaround from their past personalities, music tastes and abilities.
Overall, I was very impressed with both albums and their new music styles. However, I would recommend Cyrus’s “Younger Now” over Kesha’s “Rainbowland”. The lyrics from the former Disney star are much easier to catch on to, the mood her music sets allows me to feel empathetic towards her situation, and I prefer Cyrus’s voice over Kesha’s.
