Following the immense popularity and critical success of Olivia Rodrigo’s debut album. SOURThere was enormous pressure on her young shoulders to do an equally good or better job as a sophomore. She spoke about how this pressure affected her writing process in an interview with the publication rolling stone: “The beginning was really difficult. I felt like I couldn’t write a song without thinking about what other people would think of it. There have definitely been days where I’ve sat at the piano, excited to write a song, and then cried.” GUTS proves that Rodrigo has overcome these struggles: it is undoubtedly a triumph, demonstrating the development of her sound, lyricism and production technique.
Rodrigo’s ability to pick singles remains strong
Rodrigo’s ability to pick singles remains strong. “vampire”, “bad idea, right?” and “bring him back!” showcase her range and versatility on this album. “Vampire” showcases his vocal talent by delivering a variety of impressive notes. It also demonstrates the growth in maturity and creativity of her lyricism. Lyrics “How is a castle built from the people you pretend to care about?” depicts a guy who used Rodrigo and others to increase his fame, and the cold simplicity of the line “Walked for me and not for her / ‘Cause girls your age know better” suggests that this guy took advantage of her. This is a song filled with anger. ‘bad idea, right?’ shows a completely different side GUTS: fun side. Rodrigo’s talkative style goes very well with this song; it feels like she’s debating with herself about whether she should see her ex again. The lines “And I’m sure I’ve seen much hotter men/But I really can’t remember when” are particularly powerful—some of the most poignant on the album. The instrumental is also excellent; the drums and guitars build into an incredible final chorus.
You immediately know this song is going to be stunning.
‘bring him back!’ begins with a voice note of the musician saying, “1, 2, 3. Wait, is this a song with drums?” You immediately know this song is going to rock. Rodrigo sings about wanting revenge on his ex-boyfriend, as well as wanting to meet him again. The conflicting emotions come to a head during the brilliant bridge when she says she wants to “break his heart and sew it back up.” Great writing coupled with a fun guitar line makes this song incredibly catchy and a special highlight. GUTS. The last two singles demonstrate the album’s rock influence, but that influence is exemplified by the opening track, “All-American Bitch.” This song is about the often conflicting expectations society places on women in America and, to a large extent, the world. The lyrics are reminiscent of America Ferrera’s songs. Barbie monologue. The instruments reflect the rollercoaster of female rage. Calm acoustic guitar verses give way to raucous choruses and a transition where Rodrigo literally screams before the song ends on a calm note.
Rodrigo doesn’t forget that her first musical success was the heartbreak ballad “Drivers License.”
Rodrigo doesn’t forget that her first musical success was the heartbreak ballad “Driver’s License,” and she includes several ballads along with “Vampire” on the album. GUTS. “offense” risks simply repeating “driver’s license,” but “making the bed,” “logic,” and “teenage dream” are incredible. In “Making the Bed”, Rodrigo inserts the line “You made your bed, now lie in it” as she admits that fame is not what she dreamed of, but simultaneously admits that she chose this path for herself. “Logical” uses beautiful imagery and raw vocals to showcase the ridiculous things you can believe when you’re in love. Meanwhile, the “teenage dream” is probably too close to home for university students. Rodrigo’s voice grows as she sings, “They all say it gets better/It gets better the more you grow/Yeah, they all say it gets better/It gets better, but what if I don’t?”
General, GUTS this is a very successful second album and it proves that Olivia Rodrigo is a star that will continue to shine for years to come.
Rating: 9/10
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