More

    LP CORNER

    Date:

    GUTS – OLIVIA RODRIGO 

    Released: September 8, 2023
    Genre: Pop-Punk, Pop-Rock
    Runtime: 39 Minutes

    American singer, songwriter and Disney actress Olivia Rodrigo is back for her sophomore album GUTS following the overwhelmingly positive reception of her 2021 debut record SOUR. Her first record garnered praise for her raw natural vocals, songwriting abilities and fresh approach to the mainstream pop-punk scene… but there was more to be desired. Luckily for us, all we needed to do was wait two years and this album, it’s pretty good.

    SOUR saw Olivia dip her toes into the pop-punk genre and play around with sounds and aesthetics and with GUTS she’s now swimming in this sound. The second single bad idea right? is where we really hear Olivia’s passion for the pop-rock and pop-punk aesthetic come to fruition. Pulling inspiration from acts like Paramore it’s a loud and rambunctious ballad about questioning your moral compass on whether to get with your ex. With her two year break she’s filled in some of the cracks that were open on SOUR and isn’t so afraid to wear her inspirations on her sleeve like on songs like get him back!, ballad of a homeschooled girl and love is embarrassing where she takes some notes from Rage Against the Machine.

    Whilst Olivia Rodrigo is still in a sad-girl mood, it’s filled with a bit more angst and zest. I think this was a solid decision for her, sonically and artistically. She has a rebellious teenage edge to her voice but isn’t afraid to show her emotions and cry her heart out in sorrow or anger. As a 20 year old Olivia still has a lot to offer and I can’t wait for her to break more boundaries and delve more out of her comfort zone.

    8/10

    Rhys Pearson
    Rhys Pearson
    Rhys Pearson is a local Werribee songwriter and manager at Studio 185, with a Bachelors in Entertainment Business in his back pocket

    Did you know?

    It's hard to find local stories because major news suppliers have economised by cutting local journalism. In addition, social media algorithms mean we have to work doubly hard to be seen.

    If you loved reading this article please consider donating to the Westsider. Support from you gives local writers an outlet and ensures an independent voice can be found in the west.

    If you're a business or community group, consider advertising in print or online, or becoming a community partner.

    Your feedback

    Please enter your comment!
    Please enter your name here

     

    Share

    Latest Articles

    Latest edition

    #101 October 2024

    Recent editions

    Subscribe

    Become a supporter

    The Westsider is run on the power of volunteers. Your contribution directly contributes to ensuring we can continue serving and celebrating our community.

    Related articles