Anna's Music World

The Beatles: Magical Mystery Tour (1967) Song Ranking

Rating: 7/10

Magical Mystery Tour was the soundtrack to the film of the same name, and it’s chock-full with some of the best songs in the entire Beatles catalog. You’re guaranteed to recognize at least a few of the song titles in the track list.

In this post I’ll be ranking all the songs from Magical Mystery Tour from worst to best. I hope you enjoy!

11. Blue Jay Way (Track 4)

Okay, I’m sorry, but this song freaks me out. It literally makes me feel as if I’m facing impending doom, and it sounds like something that would play in my nightmares.

10. Flying (Track 3)

Honestly, if this song had some really cheerful lyrics and a nice melody, it would probably be among my favorites from the album, because I actually really like the music, but it’s not really a song that I would find myself listening to a lot due to the lack of lyrics.

9. I Am The Walrus (Track 6)

I know this is a classic, but it’s not a song I could ever see myself listening to outside of this record. It’s too psychedelic for me. However, it is kind of fun to listen to if you’re listening to Magical Mystery Tour as a whole.

8. Your Mother Should Know (Track 5)

This kind of sounds like something from Sgt. Pepper. This is a good song, and it’s fairly upbeat when compared to the other songs from this album, so I appreciate it for that. Still, it doesn’t stand out that much for me.

7. Baby, You’re a Rich Man (Track 10)

I don’t know why, but I’m not crazy about this song. It’s pretty weird, but it’s not bad. It’s a decent song and I can see why other people would like it, but it’s just not my type of song.

6. Hello, Goodbye (Track 7)

This marks the point where all the songs from this point on are ones that I like quite a bit. This is a nice song. I really like the melody and hook, it’s very infectious. I don’t have much else to say. This isn’t really a lyrical song (the lyrics are very basic and repetitive) but that doesn’t make it bad. The charm of this song is in the vocals, which are really pleasant.

5. Magical Mystery Tour (Track 1)

This was a really solid opener for the album. It’s fun, energetic, and has a very grandiose feel to it. If the whole album had this kind of energy, I would enjoy it a lot more. The horns as well as the vocals are the highlights of this track. Ringo’s drumming is also really good, though.

4. The Fool On The Hill (Track 2)

“Day after day, alone on a hill, the man with the foolish grin is keeping perfectly still. But nobody wants to know him, they can see that he’s just a fool, and he never gives an answer.” The first half of this album really isn’t for me. But this song (as well as the first track) is the exception. This is a really calming song. Paul’s voice sounds lovely, and the storytelling in the lyrics exceptional. This is just a beautiful song, and it just gives me happy energy. “Well on the way, head in a cloud, the man of a thousand voices talking perfectly loud. But nobody ever hears him or the sound he appears to make, and he never seems to notice. But the fool on the hill sees the sun going down, and the eyes in his head see the world spinning around. And nobody seems to like him, they can tell what he wants to do.”

3. Penny Lane (Track 9)

This is such a sweet and nostalgic song. It’s hard to listen to Penny Lane without thinking of the place where you grew up. The fondness Paul feels is very palpable through the lyrics. This album can be very unsettling at times, but it also manages to excel at providing some true anthems of positivity (more on that for the next song).

2. All You Need Is Love (Track 11)

“There’s nothing you can do that can’t be done. Nothing you can sing that can’t be sung. Nothing you can say, but you can learn how to play the game. It’s easy. Nothing you can make that can’t be made. No one you can save that can’t be saved. Nothing you can do, but you can learn how to be you in time. It’s easy.” Is this not one of the most heartwarming and uplifting songs in all of musical history? Honestly, there’s nothing I can say to really do this song justice. Just listen to this when you’re feeling down, and you’ll have to feel at least a little better. This is a great song to help you keep the things that truly matter in mind. Also, this is one of the most iconic and well-known Beatles songs ever, and rightfully so. And lastly, the outro of this song is extremely chaotic in the best possible way. “There’s nothing you can know that isn’t known. Nothing you can see that isn’t shown, there’s nowhere you can be that isn’t where you’re meant to be. It’s easy. All you need is love, all you need is love. All you need is love, love. Love is all you need.”

1. Strawberry Fields Forever (Track 8)

“Living is easy with eyes closed, misunderstanding all you see. It’s getting hard to be someone, but it all works out. It doesn’t matter much to me. Let me take you down, ’cause I’m going to Strawberry Fields. Nothing is real, and nothing to get hung about. Strawberry Fields forever.” I listened to this song awhile ago because I constantly saw it mentioned as one of the best Beatles songs of all time, and I don’t know if I was just really tired or something, because I remember not thinking much of it. I then re-listened to it a few weeks after that, and I saw it in a completely different light. There’s something so comforting and mystical about this song, and I really love it. This song just gives me good vibes, and it totally deserves it’s typical consideration as one of the greatest Beatles songs ever created. I will admit, the end of this song is pretty trippy, but it’s not too bad. “Always no, sometimes think it’s me, but you know I know when it’s a dream. I think a ‘no’, I mean, a ‘yes’, but it’s all wrong. That is, I think I disagree.”

Sabrina Carpenter: Singular: Act I (2018) Songs Ranked

Rating: 8.5/10

Singular: Act I saw Sabrina Carpenter making a proper foray into pop music. Her first album was very sweet and acoustic, and her second album was dreamy-pop, but this album is slick, glossy pop. This album took a little while to grow on me, but I actually love it a lot now.

In this post I’ll be ranking all the songs from Sabrina Carpenter’s studio album, Singular: Act I, from worst to best.

8. Almost Love (Track 1)

I can understand why this was the lead single, because it does a good job of introducing Sabrina’s more mature sound and lyrical style. And I can also understand why it was the opener, because it does a good job of building tension and getting you excited for what’s to come in the album. It’s a good song, it’s just not my favorite.

7. Paris (Track 2)

This song feels very glamorous, and it’s a pretty atmospheric song. The vocals aren’t all that impressive (they’re not bad, Sabrina just doesn’t show off much range through most of the song) and the melody/hook doesn’t really grab me. But because I like the music/production a lot, I’m not going to put it any lower than this. Also, it has a very aesthetic vibe to it (please ignore how cringey that sentence is).

6. Bad Time (Track 6)

This song is really catchy and fun to listen to. That’s pretty much all I have to say about it. It’s a cool song, but I don’t love it.

5. Diamonds Are Forever (Track 8)

Okay, we’ve now reached the songs I really like from this album. Sabrina really served with the vocals in this song. Like, she does not hold back. This is a really sassy and jazzy song, and it feels very empowering even though I don’t relate to it all.

4. Hold Tight (Track 3)

First of all, those opening vocals have to be sent down from heaven, because wow. Really, this is just an awesome song. Sabrina’s vocals are great, the production is really cool, and the melody is infectious. It’s really easy to bop to this song. Why? Because it’s a bop.

3. Sue Me (Track 4)

Back when I first listened to this album this was my favorite, and I still stand by my appreciation for this song. It has everything you could want from a pop song; amazing vocals, glamorous backing instrumental, and fun lyrics. I think this is one of Sabrina’s best songs ever. Plus, the music video is really cool.

2. prfct (Track 5)

I used to not like this song much, but it’s really grown on me. It’s just a chill, sweet song. Sabrina has some great vocal moments, and I like the song’s concept. It’s one that I always look forward to in the tracklist, and it’s so fun to sing along to. Also, I think it represents a pretty good outlook on relationships, which is to not expect it to be some perfect, fantasy relationship but to just go into it with an open mind and an open heart. Also, the production has a really pretty, shimmery vibe to it and really suits the tone of the song. I really love this one. “But I wanna feel nervous, just a little bit off the edge, even if I know that I will end up in a mess.”

1. Mona Lisa (Track 7)

This song is so catchy, it’s ridiculous. I love singing along to it, and I could listen to it for a while without getting sick of it. Honestly, I think I’ve listened to it at least 50 times over the past week and I still bop along to it like nobody’s business every time. I’m generally not much of a pure-pop kind of gal, but I think this is a great example of a pure-pop song done right. It doesn’t feel cliche or generic, but it is very slick and well-produced. Sabrina sounds so good here and has such a great attitude/flirtation in her voice, it really gives the song a lot of character. “Both of my eyes, they’ve been fixing on you. Wasting your time, should be making that move. Come and say hi, I’ve dying to meet ya. Don’t leave me hanging like the Mona Lisa.”

One Direction: Midnight Memories (2013) Songs Ranked

Rating: 8.5/10

Midnight Memories was One Direction’s first great album. Up All Night and Take Me Home were both fun and charming and cute, but I wouldn’t call them great. The growth from those two albums that is evident in this one makes me very proud. Midnight Memories says goodbye to bubblegum pop and hello to rock-influence and even some folk-flavor (see Something Great, Story of My Life, and Through the Dark).

In this post I’ll be ranking all of the songs from One Direction’s third studio album, Midnight Memories, from worst to best. I hope you enjoy my ranking, and feel free to let me know if you agree or disagree!

18. Does He Know? (Track 16)

This isn’t a bad song, but I don’t really think that it fits with the rest of the album. I associate Midnight Memories with pop-rock and pop-folk songs, and this isn’t either of those. This sounds like it would be on Take Me Home, which isn’t a bad thing, but I just think this song is on the wrong album.

17. Don’t Forget Where You Belong (Track 6)

Okay, I know this song is beloved, but I just don’t love it. Lyrically, it’s pretty nice, but sonically, it’s just not my taste. It’s not bad, it’s just not great.

16. Strong (Track 7)

I like this song, but it’s a little bland to me. The boys all sound great (especially Harry in the chorus and Zayn in the bridge), and I like the message of the song, which is not being afraid to tell your partner that they strengthen you.

15. Through the Dark (Track 11)

“I wish that I could take you to the stars, I’d never let you fall and break your heart. And if you wanna cry or fall apart, I’ll be there to hold you.” Here’s where the songs on this album start getting really good. Not my absolute favorites, but good. A lot of people say that Story of My Life sounds like Mumford and Sons, and it does, but this is THE Mumford and Sons song on the album. The chorus isn’t my favorite, but I love the melody of the verses, and the bridge is great. There’s also some nice lyricism. “You tell me that you’re hurt, it’s all in vain, but I can see your heart can love again. And I remember you laughing, so let’s just laugh again.”

14. Right Now (Track 9)

This song has a very late-at-night reminiscing feel to it, which fits the lyrics. This song is really just a great showcase for the boys’ vocal talent. In terms of melody, it’s not my favorite, but the vocals are great. Plus, the instrumental is cool. This song kind of feels like You & I’s little sibling.

13. Something Great (Track 12)

This also sounds like a Mumford and Sons song (that is to say, it’s folk-flavored). The verses aren’t amazing in my opinion, but I really like the chorus. The music gets louder, and Harry puts a lot of emotion into his voice, so it makes the song feel more meaningful. Plus, I like how Louis closes out the song. “The script was written and I could not change a thing. I want to rip it all to shreds and start again. One day I’ll come into your world and get it right. I’ll say we’re better off together here tonight.”

12. Better Than Words (Track 14)

Alright, we’ve now gotten into a section of songs that I really, really like, but they’re not quite my favorites from the album. This is a really fun song and the vocals are great. I also really like the music, and I would’ve loved to see it performed live. The chorus is definitely my favorite part of the song, because the melody is great, but the bridge is also cool. I guess I just kind of wish that the song got a little louder and crazier, because it could’ve been some hugely energetic rock-inspired song, but it never really goes all the way in that sense, it’s just teeters on the brim.

11. Why Don’t We Go There? (Track 15)

This is a really good song, and I love how upbeat it is. Harry sounds amazing in the first verse, and the chorus is really fun. However, without a doubt, the best part of the song is the bridge. Niall SERVED.

10. Happily (Track 8)

This is such a happy song (fits the title, wouldn’t you say?), and I love what it’s about. It’s about being with someone and not even caring that other people may not be super fond of your relationship, because you just like the person so much and you make each other so happy. It’s a really cute and charming song, and the boys all sound great.

9. Half a Heart (Track 18)

This is a gentler song, and a great closer for the album (it kind of reminds me of Moments, although I like this better than Moments). The lyrics are just a bit cheesy, but they’re really sweet. The boys all sound awesome and they do a great job of capturing the tone of the song without making it too overwrought.

8. Little White Lies (Track 13)

Aaaand now we’ve reached my absolute favorites from the album! This song is so good. The whole song is amazing, and Zayn does an amazing job with the chorus. Normally I don’t like harsh production in pop songs, but I actually think it’s done really well here. Niall also sounds awesome in the pre-chorus. HOWEVER. It is an inarguable fact that the bridge of this song is the best part. PERFECTION, I say. If you’ve never belted out this song’s bridge, I feel sorry for you.

7. Little Black Dress (Track 10)

When people say that Midnight Memories has rock-influence, this is likely one of the songs they’re thinking of. From the harsh, cutting guitar riff that opens the song, the pounding drums, and the practically-yelled vocals, this isn’t a song that could be found on one of One Direction’s previous albums. Louis really shines in this song, and I love that. This song is just so high-energy and fun, and the chorus, while very lyrically-simple, is addictive. Plus, though it may be a simple lyric (“I wanna see the way you move for me”), it’s a good one.

6. You & I (Track 5)

As you’ll quickly notice when reading from this point on, the singles majorly dominate my top songs from this album. I can’t really say why that is, but I guess they just chose really good singles. Actually, it’s probably because the singles on this album give me such powerful nostalgia. Anyway, this is a really nice song. It feels very heartfelt and passionate, and the boys all put a lot of power into their voices (especially Harry in the chorus, and then Zayn at the end with the heavenly high notes). There’s just a lot of determination in this song, and I love it. (Also, side note: the verses and the chorus sound like entirely different songs, but I don’t mind that.)

5. Best Song Ever (Track 1)

This is like the perfect pop-rock song (although I wish they had leaned a little more onto the rock side). The chorus is infectious and delightful, and the verses have such a powerful and flirtatious vibe to them. The boys all sound incredible here, but I think Harry shines a lot here. This type of song just suits his voice really well. Honestly, I dare you to listen to this song and not dance/sing along. It’s impossible. If you can listen to Best Song Ever and not burst out screaming “MAYBE IT’S THE WAY SHE WALKED”, I applaud you, but I also kind of pity you. Plus, the music video to this song is absolute madness in the most perfect way. (Side note: the first few seconds of this song remind me of Baba O’Riley by The Who. Anyone else?)

4. Diana (Track 3)

“Diana, let me be the one to light a fire inside those eyes. You’ve been lonely, you don’t even know me, but I can feel you crying.” This song is so wonderful. The vocals, the music, the lyrics. It’s all gold. I just really love the way they croon ‘Diana’. Apparently this song was written for their female fans who go through a lot of hard times, and that’s honestly so touching and sweet. I don’t think I have a lot of really interesting things to say about this track, I just love it a lot. “Diana, let me be the one to lift your heart up and save your life. I don’t think you even realize, baby, you’d be saving mine.”

3. Alive (Track 17)

This song literally gives me life (you could say it makes me feel alive… I’m not even going to pretend like that was clever). Everything about it is AMAZING. I wish it was longer, but I’m also glad it’s short because that makes it so that it’s perfect all the way through. I just love how rambunctious and fun this song is (it’s one of the majorly-rock-influenced songs on the album). The best part is the bridge. I want the bridge of this song to be played at my funeral. I don’t care if it doesn’t fit the tone of a funeral. It’s my funeral, and I want it to be played.

2. Midnight Memories (Track 4)

This is my friend’s favorite One Direction song ever, and honestly… TASTE. There’s so much to love about the titular track, from the booming chorus to the chaotic lyrics and the restless energy. The guitar and drums in this song are amazing, and I love the clapping/stomping in the chorus. I dare you to try not to clap/sing along to this song. It can’t be done. The bridge of this song is amazing as well, Niall and Harry honestly and truly served (Harry’s scream is the reason I’m alive). In summation, this song is everything and I want it to be played at my funeral, alongside Alive. Oh, and the music video is awesome. I want to live inside this song’s music video.

1. Story of My Life (Track 2)

“Written in these walls are the stories that I can’t explain. I leave my heart open, but it stays right here empty for days. She told me in the morning she don’t feel the same about us in her bones. It seems to me that when I die these words will be written on my stone. And I’ll be gone, gone tonight, the ground beneath my feet is open wide. The way that I’ve been holding on too tight, with nothing in between.” I love this song so much, it really strikes a chord with me. Maybe it’s because it’s really nostalgic for me, and it was one of the biggest songs of my childhood. You’d be hard-pressed to find anyone within the ages of 12-22 who hasn’t heard this song. I can understand that people may think it’s overrated or overplayed, but I don’t think it is at all. Because really, everything about this song is gorgeous. The music is folk-inspired, the vocals are lovely, the harmonies are angelic, and the lyrics are really, really beautiful. It’s just a beautiful song. Story of My Life manages to be emotional and poignant without feeling dramatic and overwrought. It’s sad and reflective but inspiring and uplifting. This is one of my absolute favorite One Direction songs, and some of their best work. There’s just such a timeless quality to this song, I feel like I could listen to it for hours and not get sick of it. It’s so beautiful. “Written on these walls are the colors that I can’t change. Leave my heart open, but it stays right here in its cage. I know that in the morning, now, I’ll see us in the light up on the hill. Although I am broken, my heart is untamed still. And I’ll be gone, gone tonight. The fire beneath my feet is burning bright. The way that I’ve been holding on so tight, with nothing in between.”

Springtime Playlist

Springtime is where the world comes alive after the winter, and it’s where colors seem brighter and sounds seem clearer, and the air smells sweeter. Personally, I’m actually more of a winter-gal, but that’s just my opinion. Spring is a beautiful season, and I’ve managed to find a few songs that capture the happiness and vibrance of it. As always, my top choice will be in a different color.

1. San Francisco – Scott McKenzie

“If you’re going to San Francisco, be sure to wear some flowers in your hair. If you’re going to San Francisco, you’re gonna meet some gentle people there.”

2. There She Goes – The La’s

“There she goes, there she goes again. She calls my name, pulls my train, no one else could heal my pain. And I just can’t contain this feelin’ that remains.”

3. Put Your Records On – Corinne Bailey Rae

“Three little birds sat on my window, and they told me I don’t need to worry. Summer came like cinnamon, so sweet. Little girls double-dutch on the concrete.”

4. Bubbly – Colbie Caillat

“The rain is falling on my window pane, but we are hiding in a safer place. Under covers, staying dry and warm, you give me feelings that I adore. They start in my toes, make me crinkle my nose. Wherever it goes, I always know that you make me smile, please stay for a while now. Just take your time, wherever you go.”

5. Cigarette Daydreams – Cage the Elephant

“You can drive all night, looking for the answers in the pouring rain. You wanna find peace of mind, looking for the answer.”

6. Canyon Moon – Harry Styles

“Gotta see it to believe it, sky never looked so blue. So hard to leave it, that’s what I always do, so I keep thinking back to a time under the canyon moon.”

7. Here Comes the Sun – The Beatles

Literally, one of the most beautiful songs I’ve ever heard. This song is the beginning of spring. “Little darling, I feel that ice is slowly melting. Little darling, it seems like years since it’s been clear.”

8. Three Little Birds – Bob Marley

“Rise up this morning, smiled with the rising sun. Three little birds, pitch by my doorstep, singing sweet songs of melodies pure and true. Saying, ‘This is my message to you’.”

9. Olivia – One Direction

“When you go and I’m alone, you live in my imagination. The summertime and butterflies all belong to your creation. I love you, it’s all I do, I love you.”

10. Penny Lane – The Beatles

“Penny Lane is in my ears and in my eyes. There beneath the blue suburban skies, I sit, and meanwhile back.”

11. Dancing In the Moonlight – King Harvest

“They keep things loose, they keep things light. Everybody’s dancing in the moonlight. Dancing in the moonlight, everybody’s feeling warm and bright. It’s such a fine and natural sight. Everybody’s dancing in the moonlight.”

12. Daydream Believer – The Monkees

This is my getting ready for school anthem. “Oh, I could hide ‘neath the wings of the bluebird as she sings. The six o’clock alarm would never ring. But it rings and I rise, wipe the sleep out of my eyes. My shavin’ razor’s cold and it stings. Cheer up, sleepy Jean. Oh, what can it mean to a daydream believer and the homecoming queen?”

13. You Make Me Feel Like a Natural Woman – Carole King

“Looking out on the morning rain, I used to feel so uninspired. And when I knew I had to face another day, Lord, it made me feel so tired. Before the day I met you, life was so unkind. Your love was the key to my peace of mind.”

14. My Girl – The Temptations

“I’ve got so much honey, the bees envy me. I’ve got a sweeter song than the birds in the trees.”

15. Right Now – Sabrina Carpenter

“We’ll never be as young as we are right now. We’ll never see the world like we do right now. So take in what’s around you, put your camera down. Take a shot, give it all you got. I have a way of getting stuck on yesterday. I tend to miss the little things that come my way. Always looking forward, always looking back. They seem so near, but they’re not here.”

Fleetwood Mac: Rumours (1977) Songs Ranked

Rating: 9/10

Rumours by Fleetwood Mac is one of the best-selling albums of all time, and it’s considered to be one of the greatest albums ever made. I can definitely get behind this notion, because wow. What an awesome album. There isn’t a single bad song, and each song really captures a particular emotion and narrative. It’s a cohesive record, but each song still stands out.

In this post I’ll be ranking the songs from Rumours from worst to best. I hope you enjoy, and if you disagree with my ranking, feel free to tell me yours!

11. Second Hand News (Track 1)

Like I said, there really aren’t any bad songs on this album, but something has to go at the bottom. Really, I think it just comes down to personal preference. This song isn’t a dip in quality from the rest of the album by any means, but if I had to pick a least favorite (which I do, for the sake of this very review) it would be this one. I can totally imagine this song growing on me the more I listen to it, though.

10. Oh Daddy (Track 10)

“If I could make you see, if there’s been a fool around it’s got to be me.” This is a beautiful song sonically, and Christine’s voice is beautiful. I guess it’s just a little too eerie and sad for me, but I do like it. There are also some great lyrics in this song. “Everything you do is just all right, and I can’t walk away from you baby, even if I try.”

9. Gold Dust Woman (Track 11)

Like I said for ‘Oh Daddy’, this is a beautiful song, and it’s sonically-gorgeous. Stevie sounds so haunting and melodic here, and it’s a nice (albeit somewhat dark) album closer, but it’s a little too gloomy and eerie for constant-listening on my part.

8. Never Going Back Again (Track 3)

This is a really sweet song, and I love the country twang. It’s rather short as well, but wholly enjoyable. It’s short and sweet, and it’s a simple but effective statement from Lindsey Buckingham.

7. Don’t Stop (Track 4)

“If you wake up and don’t want to smile. If it takes just a little while. Open your eyes and look at the day, you’ll see things in a different way.” This a very uplifting and upbeat anthem. It’s a rare song on Rumours where you don’t feel slightly depressed after listening to it, and I appreciate it for that. Try belting this song out after a long day, and you’ll feel much better, I guarantee. I also really like how Lindsey and Christine share the lead. Their voices really suit the song. “Don’t stop thinking about tomorrow. Don’t stop, it’ll soon be here. It’ll be here better than before. Yesterday’s gone, yesterday’s gone.”

6. I Don’t Want to Know (Track 9)

And we’ve now reached my absolute favorite songs from this album. This song just gives me good vibes (that’s so cringe-worthy to say, but it’s true) and it’s really fun to sing. I love the fast tempo of the song, it really adds to the pent-up frustration that’s showcased through the lyrics as well as Stevie and Lindsey’s voices. I love the bass in the background, as well as the drums. Overall, just a really fun and passive-aggressive song. What can you do?

5. Songbird (Track 6)

“For you, there’ll be no more crying. For you, the sun will be shining. And I feel that when I’m with you, it’s alright, I know it’s right. To you, I’ll give the world. To you, I’ll never be cold. ‘Cause I feel that when I’m with you, it’s alright, I know it’s right.” This is a very sentimental and beautiful song. It’s a very gentle ode to someone you’re truly in love with. Christine’s voice is beautiful, and I love the piano. The true showstopper of this song is the lyrics. They’re so passionate and caring, and there’s a true sense of peace and adoration to be found in them. “And the songbirds are singing, like they know the score. And I love you, I love you, I love you, like never before. And I wish you all the love in the world. But most of all, I wish it from myself.“

4. The Chain (Track 7)

This is one of the most iconic Fleetwood Mac songs, and rightfully so, because it’s a pretty perfect embodiment of what they’re most known for — that is, lots of personal drama between the bandmates that they managed to channel into amazing music. This song, like I just said, is amazing. It’s so emotion-filled, and you can hear the passion and betrayal in the vocals and lyrics, as well as the fantastically-composed music. I love how Stevie, Lindsey, and Christine all share lead vocal. It sounds so fricking good, and it adds an elusive quality to the song, which is already mysterious. This is one of my favorite Fleetwood Mac songs, and I really wish I could rank it higher up. However, take the fact that it’s ranked No. 4 is a testament to the quality of this album all throughout. “And if you don’t love me now, you will never love me again. I can still hear you saying you would never break the chain.”

3. Dreams (Track 2)

“When the rain washes you clean, you’ll know.“ This is an absolutely stunning song, from Stevie’s gorgeous voice to the glamorous music. It’s fitting that this song is called ‘Dreams’ because it has a very dreamlike quality to it. The drum-beat is so steady and the bass is awesome. I also really love the background harmonies. Plus, all the lyrics are gems. I could quote the entire song to prove it, but instead I’ll only do some of my favorites. “Now here I go again, I see the crystal visions. I keep my visions to myself. It’s only me who wants to wrap around your dreams, and have you any dreams you’d like to sell? Dreams of loneliness, like a heartbeat drives you mad in the stillness of remembering what you had, and what you lost, and what you had, and what you lost.”

2. You Make Loving Fun (Track 8)

Oh, how I adore this song. As much as I love Stevie’s voice, I can’t imagine anyone other than Christine singing this one. This is such a glamorous and funky song, and the music is just as much a part of why I love this song as Christine’s vocals. ‘You Make Loving Fun’ is an irresisitibly delightful tune, and if you haven’t listen to it, I can’t recommend it enough. I find songs that I like all the time, but every now and then I’ll find a song that I’m obsessed with, and this is one of them.

1. Go Your Own Way (Track 5)

“Loving you isn’t the right thing to do. How can I ever change things that I feel? If I could, maybe I’d give you my world. How can I when you won’t take it from me?” I know this is a rather basic selection for the top spot, but alas, it’s how I feel. This was actually the first Fleetwood Mac song I ever heard, so I’m a little biased to it. Still, it’s a magnificent song regardless of my personal bias to it. The drums, the guitar, the vocals. It’s incomparable. Lindsey’s voice is so heartfelt here, and you can tell that he’s not just singing the lyrics, he’s truly feeling them. Plus, his guitar solo later on is probably one of my favorite guitar solos in all of rock music. The chorus is incredibly iconic, and this song is an amazing anthem for telling someone who’s caused you a lot of pain to be on their way. There’s not much praise I can give this song that hasn’t been said more eloquently in the past, so I’ll say one last thing, quote some lyrics, then get out of your hair: this is one of my absolute favorite songs of all time. “Tell me why everything turned around. Packing up, shacking up’s all you want to do. If I could, baby, I’d give you my world. Open up, everything’s waiting for you.”

March 2020: Music Recap

This has been quite the interesting month, with all the quarantine stuff that’s been going on. While that has obviously limited other aspects of my life, it has given me a lot of free time to focus on music, as well as this blog.

At the beginning of the month I wasn’t really finding any new songs, and then about midway through March I started discovering a lot. Without further ado, let’s get into my musical discoveries of March 2020.

1. What A Feeling – One Direction

I discovered this song at the very beginning of the month (March 1st, to be exact) and it’s gotta be one of my top 3 favorite 1D songs ever.

2. Sunday Morning – Maroon 5

3. No Judgement – Niall Horan

Stream Heartbreak Weather the album.

4. Put a Little Love On Me – Niall Horan

5. All I Want – Toad the Wet Sprocket

I also really like Something’s Always Wrong by Toad the Wet Sprocket, but I discovered that awhile ago, so I was never able to put it into one of these monthly recaps.

6. Sledgehammer – Peter Gabriel

7. Summer Love – One Direction

8. The Girl Is Mine – Michael Jackson and Paul McCartney

A lot of people don’t like this song, and I can’t understand why. I guess the lyrics are a little cheesy, but the production is so glossy and smooth, and their voices sound great.

9. These Days – Chantal Kreviazuk

I discovered this song through Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants, and it’s honestly a lovely song.

10. San Francisco – Scott McKenzie

11. You Make Loving Fun – Fleetwood Mac

Billy Joel: An Innocent Man (1983) Song Ranking

Rating: 9/10

Billy Joel’s ninth studio album, An Innocent Man, is actually really great. Usually I prefer Billy as a singles artist rather than an album artist, but this album was awesome the whole way through. Seriously, there’s not a single weak track. Maybe it’s because this a concept album; all the songs are inspired by 60s-music, and as a big 60s-music lover, I guess it was bound to sit well with me.

In this post I’ll be ranking all the songs on An Innocent Man from worst to best. I hope you enjoy my ranking, and without further ado, let’s get into it!

10. Easy Money (Track 1)

This was the only song on the album that didn’t wow me, but even so, it’s a good song. I could totally imagine rocking out to this song, it just wasn’t my favorite. I guess the hook/melody just doesn’t do much for me.

9. Christie Lee (Track 8)

This is a really fun song, and I love the beat. It’s gotta be a bunch of fun to dance to, and Billy’s voice has a really nice wailing sound to it. I also like how the lyrics tell a story. I honestly like this song a lot, but I didn’t love it the way I love a lot of the other songs on the album.

8. Keeping The Faith (Track 10)

This is honestly a really catchy song. Billy’s voice sounds great, and the instrumental is really groovy and fun. It just doesn’t stand out quite as much as the other songs for me.

7. The Longest Time (Track 3)

And now we reach my favorite tracks off of An Innocent Man. I’ve known this song for a while (come on, it’s a classic) and I’ve always liked it. It’s just so cheery and happy, and I love the doo-wop inspiration. “I don’t care what consequence it brings, I have been a fool for lesser things.”

6. Uptown Girl (Track 6)

Before I listened to the full album I was anticipating that this would be up towards the very top of the ranking, but I guess the fact that it’s not just speaks to the quality of this album. This song is timeless, and it’s so endearing and exuberant. Try not to sing along with at least some part of it. That’s basically an impossible mission.

5. Leave a Tender Moment Alone (Track 9)

“Even though I’m in love, sometimes I get so afraid. I’ll say something so wrong just to have something to say.” I love this song. It’s so sweet and soulful, and I love the piano. The lyrics are also beautiful, and this song is very clearly 60s-inspired. I wish I could rank this higher, and I’m honestly on the verge of a mental breakdown trying to rank these songs, because they’re all so good. “Yes, I know I’m in love, but just when I ought to relax, I put my foot in my mouth ’cause I’m just avoiding the facts.”

4. Tell Her About It (Track 5)

This song was a huge hit upon its release, and I can see why. It’s irresistibly catchy and joyful to listen to. Lyrically, it doesn’t stray far from the typical things Billy sings about, but that doesn’t diminish it’s value. This song is Motown-inspired, so of course it’s good. Overall, this is just a very joyful song, and listening to it is a wonderful experience.

3. Careless Talk (Track 7)

This song is a tribute to Sam Cooke, and it’s absolutely lovely. Billy sounds amazing here, and the instrumental is so classy and soulful. The more I listen to ‘Careless Talk’, the more I adore it. If you’re looking for a gauge of the overall sound of An Innocent Man, I would recommend listening to this track.

2. This Night (Track 4)

“Didn’t I say I wasn’t ready for a romance? Didn’t we promise we would only be friends? And so we danced, though it was only a slow dance. I started breaking my promises right there and then. Didn’t I swear there would be no complications? Didn’t you want someone who’s seen it all before?” This is an extremely passionate and soulful song. It’s a bit slower than the other songs on the album, but it doesn’t drag by any means. It just has a slower tempo. The vocals are great here, and the melody is awesome. I’d say that the best situations for listening to this song are either a prom slow dance, or when you’re laying on your bed thinking about the person you like. In summation, this is a truly beautiful song and it’s one of my favorites ever from Billy Joel. “Didn’t I say I needed time to forget her? Aren’t you running from someone who’s not over you? How many nights have I been lonely without you? I tell myself how much I really don’t care.”

1. An Innocent Man (Track 2)

“I know you’re only protecting yourself. I know you’re thinking of somebody else, someone who hurt you, but I’m not above making up for the love you’ve been denying you could ever feel. I’m not above doing anything to restore your faith if I can.” Yeah, the titular track takes the cake on this one. I honestly don’t know what it is about this song that I love so much, but I really do love it. ‘An Innocent Man’ is such a broody and moody and passionate song. This song is about Billy trying to comfort a girl he likes who has just been heartbroken. He feels as if she’s closing herself off to the idea of love, and he compares this to him being accused of crimes that he didn’t commit. He tries to persuade her that he’s an innocent man, and that he will be worthy of her love. It’s an awesome allegory, and the songwriting and production on this song is so impressive to me. “You know you only hurt yourself out of spite. I guess you’d rather be a martyr tonight. That’s your decision, but I’m not below anybody I know if there’s a chance of resurrecting a love. I’m not above going back to the start to find out where the heartache began. Some people hope for a miracle cure, some people just accept the world as it is. But I’m not willing to lay down and die because I am an innocent man.”

The Beatles: Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band (1967) Song Ranking

Rating: 8/10

Okay, before all the music fans out there get mad that I didn’t give this album a 10/10, I just want to clarify that my ratings are based on my personal enjoyment of the album, not how historically and culturally impactful it was (surely if that was the case, Sgt. Pepper would get a 10/10).

Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band is very often cited as the best album of all time, so for that reason, I’m a little nervous to review it. Nonetheless, I think it would be a crime for me to go through The Beatles’ discography without reviewing this album, so here I am. Just know that I’m not some musical expert, and these are just my opinions. Without further ado, let’s have the ranking begin!

13. Within You Without You (Track 8)

I think I understand what they were going for, and I appreciate this song for how experimental it is (I can’t think of a single Beatles song that sounds similar to it), but it’s not my type of song.

12. Being For The Benefit of Mr. Kite! (Track 7)

I like the descriptive lyrics, but sonically, this isn’t the type of song that I would like. However, I could imagine myself listening to it in a certain mood, and I will say that I like musical break between the second and third verses, as well as the musical outro.

11. Good Morning Good Morning (Track 11)

This is a fun song (sonically, not so much lyrically) that I don’t mind within the album, but it’s not something I would want to listen to outside of the album. It’s got some great lyrics in the verses (“Somebody needs to know the time, glad that I’m here. Watching the skirts, you start to flirt, now you’re in gear. Go to a show, you hope she goes. I’ve got nothing to say, but it’s okay.”) and I really like John’s vocals.

10. Lovely Rita (Track 10)

I love the music in this song, it gives me good vibes (especially the opening). It’s a sweet song, and I do like it, it’s just not one of my absolute favorites. It gets a little weird at the end, but I kinda like it.

9. When I’m Sixty-Four (Track 9)

I really like Paul’s voice here, especially at “You’ll be older too…”, and the music has a very happy and playful sound to it, which is nice. Lyrically, it’s a cute song, but it feels a bit out of place on the album. I do like it though.

8. Fixing a Hole (Track 5)

“I’m fixing a hole where the rain gets in, and stops my mind from wandering where it will go.” Sonically, this is one of my favorite songs from Sgt. Pepper, and it’s also pretty lyrically interesting. The topic of the song is intriguing to me, so I found myself paying a lot of attention to the lyrics. Paul’s voice sounds really good here. “Silly people run around, they worry me, and never ask me why they don’t get past my door. I’m taking the time for a number of things that weren’t important yesterday, and I still go.”

7. Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band (Track 1)

Here’s where we get into my favorite songs on the album. This is a great opener, and there’s a fun concept behind the song. This is the song that introduces the fictitious and titular band, and it’s a great introduction. The guitar in the beginning is awesome, and I love the group harmonies in the bridge. I also really like how this song fades seamlessly into With A Little Help From My Friends.

6. Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band (Reprise) (Track 12)

Really, this song and the first rendition of it are pretty equal in my mind, but I just happen to like this one better, which is odd, considering that it’s barely over a minute long. I really love the drum beat as well as the guitar. I just prefer the quicker tempo of this song.

5. With A Little Help From My Friends (Track 2)

Ladies and gents, it finally happened. I found a song featuring Ringo on lead vocals that I actually like! It makes me happy, because I’ve always liked his voice, I just haven’t liked the songs he’s been lead singer on in the past. This is a really nice and happy song, and it’s a great friendship anthem. My favorite part of the song is when Ringo sings, “I need somebody to love” because I think his voice sounds really good there, and it’s just pleasing to the ear.

4. Getting Better (Track 4)

When I first listened to this song it didn’t stand out to me, but upon relistening, I actually really like it. The chorus is my favorite part, because there’s just something really uplifting about it. This song is great for a self-improvement streak, or when things are finally going right in your life. The bassline is also really cool.

3. Lucy In the Sky With Diamonds (Track 3)

“Picture yourself in a boat on a river, with tangerine trees and marmalade skies. Somebody calls you, you answer quite slowly, a girl with kaleidoscope eyes. Cellophane flowers of yellow and green towering over your head. Look for the girl with the sun in her eyes, and she’s gone.” This song is so trippy in the best way, and it really encapsulates what psychedelic music is. I don’t know what I can say to describe this song, just listen to it if you want to hear some truly strange but fascinating music. The lyrics are so imaginative and descriptive, you can tell that John was very inspired by Lewis Carroll. “Follow her down to a bridge by a fountain, where rocking horse people eat marshmallow pies. Everyone smiles as you drift past the flowers that grow so incredibly high. Newspaper taxis appear on the shore, waiting to take you away. Climb in the back with your head in the clouds, and you’re gone.”

2. She’s Leaving Home (Track 6)

“Wednesday morning at five o’clock as the day begins. Silently closing her bedroom door, leaving the note that she hoped would say more, she goes down the stairs to the kitchen, clutching her handkerchief. Quietly turning the backdoor key, stepping outside, she is free.” Fun fact: I wrote a poem inspired by this song. Obviously it is nothing compared to the song itself, so I will not be sharing it. This is a really beautiful and sad song about a girl who abandons her parents, leaving behind nothing but a goodbye note. This song isn’t only gorgeous because of Paul’s wonderful voice (as well as John’s great background vocals) or the touching lyrics. I think the strings really make the song what it is. This doesn’t feel like just any narrative song. When you listen to this song, you really feel the story. “Father snores as his wife gets into her dressing gown. Picks up the letter that’s lying there. Standing alone at the top of the stairs, she breaks down and cries to her husband, ‘Daddy, our baby’s gone. Why would she treat us so thoughtlessly? How could she do this to me?'”

1. A Day in the Life (Track 13)

What else could take the top spot? Among music critics (I’m obviously not a music critic, but whatever) this is the Beatles song. There’s just so much to love about this song. I really love the guitar at the beginning and the bass in the first verse, and John’s voice is hauntingly nonchalant. Ringo’s drumming is also great. Then there’s that terrifying musical section before the second verse which kind of makes you feel like you’re in the middle of an apocalypse, and then it’s over as quick as it started and we’re back to an upbeat verse with Paul on vocals. Then there’s a trumpet section before John’s last verse, which ends with the echoey “I’d love to turn you on”. Then at the end you legitimately feel as if you’re falling down a hole on the way to your death, and it’s terrifying but fascinating. Then the song ends with that last powerful, ominous chord. The song then fades out, and, depending on which version of the song you listen to, there’s silence before this weird and nonsensical repeating outro. In summation, this song makes me feel as if I’m about to die in an apocalypse, but it’s an amazingly crafted song.

One Direction: Take Me Home (2012) Song Ranking

Rating: 7.5/10

One Direction’s sophomore album, while still struggling with issues of being a little generic, has some truly great songs on it, and it displays wiser and maturer lyrics. This album is beloved by the fanbase, and I can see why, because some of the best songs in their entire discography live on this album.

In this post I’ll be ranking all the songs from One Direction’s second studio album, Take Me Home, from worst to best. This ranking is based on my personal enjoyment and connection to the songs, so sorry if I put your favorite at the bottom.

Also quick disclaimer: If I were to put Magic, Truly Madly Deeply, and Irresistible in this ranking, they would all be towards the top of the list. THOSE ARE SOME TRUE BANGERS.

17. Change My Mind (Track 8)

I’m sorry, I just don’t like it. The guitar in the beginning is nice, but after listening to this album in full several times, I just don’t vibe with it like I do with most of the other songs.

16. I Would (Track 9)

It’s not awful, but lyrically there’s basically no depth to it, and it feels like any bubblegum pop song. Plus, the spelling of L-O-V-E in the chorus kind of makes me want to die (I’m so sorry).

15. Loved You First (Track 15)

If the whole song sounded like the verses I would actually like it a lot more, but the heavy production in the chorus makes me more or less indifferent to this song. I also think that unrequited love is such a heavy topic that could’ve been used for some great lyricism, but the lyrics in this song feel like all the other ‘I Want You But I Can’t Have You’ songs on this album.

14. Last First Kiss (Track 5)

The verses and pre-chorus sound really lovely in this song, and if the whole song sounded like them then I would really like it. The chorus isn’t bad, but it’s a lot harsher than the stripped-back verses, and I wish the whole song was stripped-back. IT WOULD SOUND SO GOOD ACOUSTIC.

13. Still the One (Track 17)

This song is really catchy and fun, and the drums/guitar are really cool. There’s not much to say about this song, really. The lyrics aren’t all that unique or meaningful, but it’s infectious and high-energy, so it gets a pass. Also, Niall’s solo is awesome.

12. Heart Attack (Track 6)

This is a nice upbeat song, and the chorus is really fun to sing along to, but it’s not the most interesting to me. It just kind of blends in with some of the other songs a bit.

11. She’s Not Afraid (Track 14)

When I first read the title I thought this song was going to be about a really courageous and inspiring woman, so I was excited. It’s not exactly that type of song, but it’s not bad. I know I say this all the time, but the pre-chorus is my favorite part of the song. The chorus is also pretty cool. I really like the guitar in the verses. Overall, this song is just a bop. It’s not deep, but it’s still good.

10. Kiss You (Track 2)

Kiss You is a song that I used to actually dislike. Like, I really didn’t understand why everyone was so crazy about it. Upon lots of relistening, I can now see the appeal. It’s catchy in the most annoying but genuine way, and it’s just fun to listen to. Plus, the music video is amazing. Like, that music video is probably in my top 3 1D music videos ever. This is a rare song on the album where I actually like the chorus better than the verses. The chorus is pretty catchy (though the hook is not my favorite), but the weird riff at the beginning of the verses gives me nightmares. The bridge is really awesome, though.

9. Live While We’re Young (Track 1)

Originally, I wasn’t a huge fan of this song, but it’s grown on me. While it doesn’t even come close to surpassing it’s Up All Night counterpart, What Makes You Beautiful, it’s still worthy of respect as a teenage recklessness anthem. Additionally, the opening guitar riff is almost identical (I don’t want to call it a ripoff) of The Clash’s ‘Should I Stay Or Should I Go’, so it gets brownie points for that.

8. Nobody Compares (Track 16)

This is definitely the best of the bonus tracks, and I wish it would’ve been included in the original track list, because it’s miles better than some of the original tracks. The chorus sounds really nice, and the opening guitar is pretty fun. It’s a pretty standard pop song, but as far as standard pop songs go, it’s pretty dang good.

7. They Don’t Know About Us (Track 12)

I don’t know what it is about this song, but it just gives me good vibes. I probably have it ranked too high, but between the delicate piano at the beginning and the great vocals (seriously, all the boys, especially Harry and Zayn, sound so good here) there’s a lot to love about this song. I dare you to listen to this song and not sing along. “Just one touch and I was a believer. Every kiss, it gets a little sweeter. It’s getting better, keeps getting better all the time, girl.”

6. Back For You (Track 11)

And we’ve reached my favorites from the album! The chorus of this song slaps, and I really wish I could’ve seen this song performed live. I don’t know what to say, but it’s just a nice song. I also like to think that this song is their way of saying they’ll come back for us (meaning they’ll reunite eventually). It’s just a straight bop. What else can I say?

5. Little Things (Track 3)

I used to find this song cringey (I guess I couldn’t help but feel that it was a little disingenuous), but I’m now able to look at it through a less-cynical lens, and I can appreciate it for how sweet it is. It’s basically the boys saying that no one is going to be absolutely perfect, and someone’s flaws usually end up being their most endearing qualities. Sonically, it’s beautiful. I know I said earlier that I really wanted an acoustic song on the album, and this is it. Little Things is a very sweet and simple song, and the boys all sound lovely (Louis’ solo is everything). “You can’t go to bed without a cup of tea, maybe that’s the reason that you talk in your sleep. And all those conversations are the secrets that I keep, though it makes no sense to me.“

4. C’mon, C’mon (Track 4)

I don’t even know why I like this song so much, it’s not that good objectively, but it’s such a bop. The boys sound so good, and the hook is irresistible. Plus, the bridge is amazing. It’s like the more I listen to this song the more I like it. In summation: this song is a bop and a half.

3. Rock Me (Track 7)

Okay, the lyrics are pretty scandalous for an early-years One Direction song, but putting aside the fact that I’ll never be able to listen to it in the car with my parents, Rock Me is a banger to end all bangers. This is the closest we get to a rock song on the album, and I think it’s done really well. This song is a bombastic anthem, and a great summer song. I think it’s a scientific fact that you cannot listen to this song without headbanging at least once to the chorus.

2. Over Again (Track 10)

“If you’re pretending from the start, like this, with a tight grip, then my kiss can mend your broken heart. I might miss everything you said to me. And I can lend you broken parts that might fit, like this, and I will give you all my heart so we can start it all over again.” Over Again and my top choice are pretty much tied in my mind. This song is so fricking iconic. Like, as far as non-single 1D songs go, this is probably one of the most beloved. The live performances of this song are unmatched, and I would kill to be able to see one. This song stands out because of how emotional it feels, and the harmonies in the chorus are actually stunning. The lyrics are sad but not depressing, and the boys do a great job of capturing and selling the essence of the song. Overall, this is a really beautiful song, both sonically and lyrically, and I feel like it’s impossible not to like it. “You’ll never know how to make it on your own, and you’ll never show weakness for letting go. I guess it’s still hard if the seed’s sown, but do you really want to be alone?“

1. Summer Love (Track 13)

“Don’t promise that you’re gonna write, don’t promise that you’ll call. Just promise that you won’t forget we had it all.” The original track list’s closer is honestly a perfect conclusion to the album. Soft, gentle, and a little bittersweet, it ties up Take Me Home‘s themes very well. I had low expectations for this song because I had seen people online saying that they didn’t like it, so it came as a shock to me when I found myself in love with it. I know I’ve been saying this on a lot of the songs, but the boys sound so good here (they also have a writing credit, so it makes me happy to know that they had a part in creating such a beautiful song). I really love Harry’s verse, and the bridge is great as well. I also like how Niall gets to shine the chorus. I don’t really know what else to say; this song just strikes a chord with me for some reason. It’s very beautiful, and weirdly soothing and nostalgic. It’s definitely one of my all-time favorites from 1D. “Don’t say the word that’s on your lips, don’t look at me that way. Just promise you’ll remember when the sky is gray. ‘Cause you were mine for the summer, now we know it’s nearly over. Feels like snow in September but I always will remember you were my summer love. You always will be my summer love. So please don’t make this any harder, we can’t take this any farther. And I know there’s nothing that I wanna change…”

Sabrina Carpenter: Evolution (2016) Song Ranking

Rating: 7/10

Evolution by Sabrina Carpenter was a major improvement upon her first album, Eyes Wide Open. It displayed a more experimental and soulful sound, while moving into more lyrically profound territory. Back in the day, I really loved this album (I was a huge Sabrina Carpenter fan), so a lot of these songs have nostalgia points with me.

In this post, I’ll be ranking all the songs from Sabrina Carpenter’s sophomore album, Evolution, from worst to best. Enjoy!

10. Don’t Want It Back (Track 7)

Four years ago, this was my least favorite track from the album, and it still is. It’s not bad by any means, it just blends in with some of the other songs.

9. Thumbs (Track 3)

This is probably the most popular song from Evolution because it got some traction as a single, but it was never my favorite. I like the verses better than the chorus, and if the harsh production in the chorus had been avoided, I would have this song much higher. The bridge of this song is pretty awesome, and sonically, it’s one of the more unique songs on the album.

8. All We Have Is Love (Track 10)

Here’s where we transition into my favorite songs from the album. This is a really sweet and refreshing song (with a Beatles-inspired title?) and I think it’s a good closer for the album. It’s a gentle song, with Sabrina singing almost entirely in her upper register. The first five seconds is my favorite part of this song, and if this song was a little more stripped back it would’ve been one of my top picks from the album.

7. Mirage (Track 6)

This is a very atmospheric and dreamy song, which suits the name. The lyrics center around how there are certain stigmas and requirements that are expected to go along with being successful. I’m not crazy about the chorus, but I really like the verses. “And every face is a hologram. We’re all caught in a dream, we’re all caught in a dream. And everyone plays so innocent, it’s all part of the scene.”

6. On Purpose (Track 1)

The lead single from this album did a great job of introducing Sabrina’s maturer sound, and it also does a good job as an opener, because it introduces the romantic themes of the album. This song is pretty nostalgic for me, and it’s actually a really good pop song (Sabrina’s vocals are great and the production is really good). It just gives me good vibes. However, it’s not as sonically interesting as some of the other songs.

5. Feels Like Loneliness (Track 2)

“We can’t get the timing, because I was running. But now I want you, and you always knew, so baby, you pull away and make me wait for you. So screw all that love -ish, I think that I’ve had it. The more you turn your back, then I want you back, ’cause this is the last time I play this game. Always the same, and I’m through.” This song could’ve been so freaking good if only the whole song sounded like the verses. The verses are so jazzy and soulful and laid-back, but the chorus sounds like any radio song. Sabrina’s vocals are great, and the lyrics are pretty fun, though, so it gets to be in the top 5.

4. Run and Hide (Track 5)

“And why does everybody look at young hearts feeling love like it’s just a matter of time before they break?” This is one of the more stripped-back songs on Evolution, and it’s done really well. The instrumentation is somber but poignant, and the lyrics are also some of the best on the album. It’s a beautiful song, and would be a good gauge of the album’s quality. “Traded out our eyes to light a screen, traded out holdin’ hands to holdin’ back everything…And words got shorter and quiet got longer, and all of a sudden love started looking like a memory.”

3. No Words (Track 4)

The opening of this song is stunning. Sabrina really served with the vocals there. The production is also pretty cool. The main reason I like this song is because the vocals are fantastic, the lyrics are intriguing, and it’s just really catchy. “Ribs are the cage of a wild heart, I can hear your heart beatin’ on the bars.”

2. Shadows (Track 8)

This is objectively the best song on the album. A piano-driven song, Shadows has a lyrical depth that the other songs lack. Sabrina’s voice sounds really beautiful here, and the chorus (differing from the other songs on Evolution) is actually my favorite part of the song. Well, actually the pre-chorus is, but the chorus is really good too. “I don’t mind your shadows, ’cause they disappear in the light. I don’t mind your shadows ’cause they look a lot like mine.”

1. Space (Track 9)

This was my favorite song back in the day, and it still is now. The production is really cool, Sabrina sounds great, and the lyrics are relatable, because they’re applicable to a myriad of situations. Really, it’s just a fun song, and it’s really nostalgic for me, so it has a special place in my heart.