cowboy carter

02.04.2024

Today, I'm delving into the long-awaited album by Queen Bey—27 tracks to be exact, inclusive of interludes. I have to commend Beyoncé for creating a cohesive album, as always.

She consistently provides a listening experience where all tracks are connected to each other in terms of mixing and lyrical content. It's one of those albums that I would listen to at work. I was actually anticipating the release of the album; it would've been a country-inspired Friday filled with bops at work. But unfortunately, it didn't go as planned.

I'm really digging the first track named "American Requiem." I was in awe of the vocal acrobatics she displayed, from lows to highs to extra operatic highs. Queen Bey is one of the few breeds of singers that can literally make your jaw drop, and with this particular cut, you'll definitely understand why she's the Queen. Although this is not a country album, it's a Beyoncé album. Her words, not mine.

Though it was supposed to be a country album, I can still hear the R&B and Gospel influences. I guess this is a country-inspired album with the touches of her glorious genre, which I love.

I have to say that my second favorite would be her cover of "Jolene" by the country Queen, Dolly Parton—a woman who plays a huge influence on me.

Even though I don't listen to Dolly that much, her life story and perseverance in being successful in a world full of talent set her character apart from everyone else.

The delivery of Beyoncé in the song is a little different; it felt like a different flavor of vanilla, but what you're getting is still vanilla, if you know what I mean.

A third favorite for me would be "Ya Ya," but you have to include the intro as it gives you that complete Rodeo experience. The chants and speeches in the song make it more enjoyable, and I think it won't be just a first and last listen for me for this particular track.

And how can I forget "Texas Hold 'Em"? The moment I heard this song, I knew it was going to be number one right away. It has that country fun vibe, like "These Boots Are Made for Walking," or that 9-5 kind of music with splashes of pop. It's like you're driving around a deserted road with a beer in your hand.

And I can never forget the Miley Cyrus-featured song, "I Most Wanted." It's such a dream-filled kind of song, such a jam, and with the vocals of Miss Cyrus, you can really tell that it's made for country radio or a camp night with your guitar.

I was kinda wanting a little Taylor Swift since it's a country album, or a little hint of Garth Brooks, a country legend, but I'll take Dolly, Miley, and Post Malone (he's an incredible singer).

The album ends with the song "Amen," a continuation of "American Requiem." With the ending song, you can really tell that it's a complete body of work and not just a compilation of singles where you pick and choose which ones you like. The album may be long, but it's a BEYONCÉ ALBUM and it deserves a standing ovation and an ALBUM OF THE YEAR award since this is the most cohesive album I've listened to for 2024 releases.

Cowboy Carter - 9.5/10

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