Miley Cyrus returns with her boldest album yet, Something Beautiful, showcasing her ever-evolving artistry. Not one to shy away from challenges, the 32-year-old pop icon pushes boundaries with her latest work, which blends influences from the late ’70s and early ’80s with a modern twist. Known for her chameleonic persona, Cyrus aims to surprise her audience while paying homage to the legends who have influenced her musical journey. This album not only highlights her growth as an artist but celebrates the vibrancy of nostalgic sounds, ushering listeners into a daring musical experience.
Throughout Something Beautiful, Cyrus pays homage to classic Europop and operatic psychedelia, as evidenced in tracks like “End of the World.” A standout on the album, this song channels the glitzy vibes of ABBA, serving as a potential summer anthem had it not been for the fierce competition among contemporary mega-hits. Another highlight, “Every Girl You’ve Ever Loved,” embodies the essence of disco, further elevated by a spoken cameo from Naomi Campbell that nods to Madonna’s iconic “Vogue.” These tracks encapsulate Cyrus’s ability to merge past influences with current musical trends, solidifying her place in the pop landscape.
Despite her renowned hit-making capabilities, Cyrus isn’t keen on delivering radio-friendly tunes alone. The album’s title track, for instance, presents a bold juxtaposition, beginning as a smooth ballad before erupting into an experimental rock segment. This transition reflects Cyrus’s complexity and refusal to be pigeonholed into a single genre. She embraces the unexpected and unorthodox, celebrating her freedom as an artist unbound by commercial pressures. Such artistic daring showcases her commitment to push boundaries, reaffirming her standing in the music industry.
The latter part of Something Beautiful is where Cyrus truly shines, particularly with the exuberant track “Reborn.” The nearly six-minute anthem builds into an exhilarating crescendo, showcasing her vocal prowess and emotional range. The album’s pièce de résistance, however, is the epic “Walk of Fame,” regarded as her most potent dance cut to date. This energetic offering highlights Cyrus’s versatility, reinforcing her reputation as a multifaceted artist capable of delivering a captivating experience.
After years in the industry, Cyrus finally earned recognition from the Recording Academy with her first Grammy, a long-overdue accolade for her earlier work like Plastic Hearts. With Something Beautiful, she positions herself in the conversation among pop music’s greats, hinting at her potential for further accolades. Each track on this album contributes to the narrative of her artistic evolution, making it clear that she is continuously reinventing herself while honoring her musical roots.
In summary, Something Beautiful is a testament to Miley Cyrus’s relentless drive and innate ability to challenge the status quo. With its rich sonic palette and ambitious songwriting, the album not only reflects her personal journey but also celebrates the rich musical heritage that informs her work. As she navigates this vibrant landscape, Cyrus solidifies her legacy as a transformative figure in pop music, inviting both fans and newcomers to join her on this daring creative expedition.
