17
Music
Why Taylor Swift’s Red is the Perfect Autumn Album by Louise Collins associated with new life, nature’s revival. But autumn is a fresh start for people – it’s the return to school, the chance to reflect over summer and find ways to change and grow, or follow newfound interests. Many of Red’s songs follow this pattern – The Lucky One highlights new identities in new towns, like a new high school, Everything Has Changed and Begin Again tell the story of new beginnings and new love. There are multiple mentions of autumn throughout the album - “like the colours in autumn” (Red), “autumn leaves falling down” (All Too Well) - but there’s also the more subtle aesthetic references, such as the colour red, scarves, and plaid. Taylor perfectly creates the aesthetic of autumn – the photos having shades of red, a mixture
of warm and cool filters, the bowler hats, the use of shadows. To further the autumnal feel, Red was originally released in October 2012, and is set to be rereleased this November. These next months, I’ll be channelling autumn vibes and playing Red on my record player, eagerly awaiting the arrival of Red (Taylor’s Version).
Photo: Unsplash
There are songs which are ‘summer anthems’ and then there are albums – usually Christmas ones – which are on repeat throughout winter months. But do people associate music with spring or autumn? Not so much. Unless, of course, you’re a Taylor Swift fan. Taylor’s music is cleverly crafted to fit certain aesthetics, and to mirror specific moments of her life. It makes sense, therefore, that her albums are associated with different seasons. Take Red – it’s a perfect autumnal album. And I’ll tell you why. In her rerelease announcement, Taylor describes Red as “resembl[ing] a heartbroken person” and her return to the studio “like trying on pieces of a new life”. What is autumn if not a chance to say goodbye, and start again? Spring is
What’s happening in Norwich this year? By elizabeth woor Norwich has a vibrant history of showcasing musical talent of all genres. Whether you’re looking to experience an intimate gig featuring up and coming bands, or are wanting to hear some worldfamous performers, Norwich has something to offer. Luckily, this year is no exception and local venues are hosting an incredible array of musicians from around the world. Just around the corner is Wildpaths festival - a multi-venue music festival situated right in the heart of Norwich. Between the 14th – 17th of October, over 200 acts will perform across 20 stages. Felt like you missed out on seeing live music during the pandemic? Well, this might just be the perfect cure. With headliners this year including Sports Team, Biig Piig and Palace, it’s
definitely not one to miss. There are even late-night DJ sets for all of you who never want the party to end.
“local venues are hosting an incredible array of musicians from around the world.” Another festival to keep an eye out for in the latter half of the academic year is the Norfolk and Norwich festival, which will be celebrating its 250th anniversary in 2022. Although the festival doesn’t solely focus on music, they put on an impressive showcase of talent. Earlier this year they actually collaborated with
Wildpaths to host the likes of Poppy Ajudha and Moses Boyd. Make sure to keep an eye out for more details. Of course, UEA’s own LCR is also set to bring in some big names this year. With something for everybody, acts include Wolf Alice, Oh Wonder and Architects. Especially if you’re on campus, why not take a look at what the LCR has to offer? World class acts are literally playing right on your doorstep. If somehow none of the above has caught your attention, then perhaps the Waterfront or Voodoo Daddys Showroom will have what you’re looking for. I personally recommend Voodoo Daddys for a night of great music, drinks and pizza. The Norwich music scene has so much to offer. Why not make this year the one where you get involved?
