Geffen Records
It may seem like ages ago, but it was just January of this year when Olivia Rodrigo released her debut single “drivers license” to the world.
Filled with bedroom pop, indie pop, and power pop, this song was a strong ballad. Its emotional lyrics and clever production had listeners pointing out Taylor Swift and Lorde influences.
The singer’s debut single not only went on to receive critical praise but commercial success as well. Debuting at No. 1 on The Billboard Hot 100, being certified Gold, becoming the UK’s official No. 1 song, and much more, many were excited to see what the singer would release next.
After releasing “drivers license,” Olivia continued her successful run with her second and third singles, “deja vu” and “good 4 u.” Both went on to become fan-favorites but also showcased the singer’s versatility — which gave a peek into what her debut album would sound like.
The release of Olivia Rodrigo’s debut album Sour was one that many have been highly anticipating, and now that day is finally here.
my debut album SOUR out may 21st ahhhh pic.twitter.com/JSBsUSgOwj
— Olivia Rodrigo (@Olivia_Rodrigo) April 13, 2021
Sour begins with “brutal” and truly sets the tone of the album – heartbreak and teenage angst. With lyrics like “But I wish I could disappear, ego crush is so severe, god, it’s brutal out here,” the production of this song is quintessential pop-punk.
But that pop-punk then transitions into her song “traitor,” a power ballad that truly reveals Olivia’s heartbreak. It’s deeply honest and emotional, making you wonder if the album will have more songs like this one (spoiler: it does).
Those powerful ballads continue, of course, with “drivers license” but also with her songs “1 step forward, 3 steps back,” “enough for you,” “happier,” “favorite crime,” and “hope ur ok.”
Olivia brings that Taylor Swift vibe to her song “1 step forward, 3 steps back” and uses an interpolation of the piano line in Taylor’s song “New Year’s Day.” With “hope ur ok,” Lorde‘s influence is heard especially clear when reaching the production of the bridge.
Compared to the ballads that are featured, “jealousy, jealousy” has the same feeling that “good 4 u” does — a lyrically groovy tune that honestly explains how the singer feels.
For being her debut album, Sour proves to be just what everyone was waiting for ever since they first heard “drivers license.” It’s bold, honest, brave, angsty, emotional, and has rightfully cemented its place in music, making Olivia a singer-songwriter to watch out for in the future.
You can stream Olivia Rodrigo’s debut album Sour on Spotify here.