Time to feel happy, free, confused and lonely in the best way! Taylor Swift’s fourth single to be released from multi-platinum selling album, Red makes its way to contemporary radio stations today. I firmly believe the song is bound to take airwaves by storm, and become an instant smash. Co-penned and produced by hit makers Max Martin & Yohan Shellback, “22” stands out as an amazing bubblegum pop sounding record with a sassy, carefree vibe. There’s a bit of twang at the beginning as the track opens with an acoustic guitar riff before transitioning into a thumping back beat. “It feels like a perfect night to dress up like hipsters, and make fun of our exes (ah, ah, ah). It feels like a perfect night for breakfast at midnight, to fall in love with strangers (ah, ah, ah),” sings Taylor on the first verse. The chorus soon introduces a burst of synthesizers and backing vocal assistance around the 40-second mark, where the singer proudly proclaims, “I don’t know about you, but I’m feeling 22. Everything will be alright if you keep me next to you.” Thankfully, Swift manages to poke some harmless fun at herself during the second verse, and if you’re not listening close enough, you might miss it… But, Taylor can be heard uttering in an exasperated tone, “Who’s Taylor Swift, anyway? …Ew.” Simply put, 22 highlights Swift’s experiences being a 22- year old last year and the best summer spent with friends like: Selena Gomez, Dianna Agron and Emma Stone. Country fans missing the star’s initial sound will be increasingly disappointed by this tune, but the pop sound is clearly here to stay. It is the quintessential theme song for any upcoming girls’ night out or dance party, and frankly, what more could you possibly ask for?
***** 4.5/5 *****
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