Is Folklore a good place to start with Taylor Swift?

Yes, Folklore is recommended as a starting point for new Taylor Swift listeners. A serene blend of indie folk and pop, weaving intimate storytelling with lush, atmospheric production. When 'Folklore' was released in July 2020, Taylor Swift was transitioning from her commercial pop phase to a more introspective sound. This eighth studio album followed the chart-topping 'Lover' and marked a significant artistic reinvention as she embraced a more subdued, folk-inspired aesthetic during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Folklore works well if you're into introspective melodies for reflection, serene soundscapes for quiet moments and storytelling that evokes nostalgia.

How many songs are on Folklore?

Folklore has 17 tracks, running approximately 67 minutes.

Folklore

Taylor Swift · 2020

67 min · 17 tracks · contemporary R&B

A serene blend of indie folk and pop, weaving intimate storytelling with lush, atmospheric production.

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Top tracks — play these first

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the 1 Start here — accessible entry with immediate hook
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cardigan — This track encapsulates the album's themes of nostalgia and emotional complexity, showcasing Swift's lyrical depth against a haunting piano backdrop.
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exile — Featuring Bon Iver, this duet highlights the album's exploration of heartbreak through its rich vocal interplay and poignant lyrics about lost love.
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the last great american dynasty — This narrative-driven song tells the story of Rebekah Harkness, blending historical storytelling with personal reflection, illustrating Swift's growth as a songwriter.
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my tears ricochet — The track showcases emotional vulnerability as it grapples with themes of betrayal and loss, employing metaphorical imagery that resonates throughout the album.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

78 /100

Summit

Higher than 99% of albums we've rated

Folklore showcases strong storytelling and atmospheric production, marking a significant shift in Swift's artistry.

What we noticed

The album features a consistent use of soft instrumentation, with many tracks relying on piano and acoustic guitar as primary elements.
Several songs employ a narrative structure, with lyrics that tell distinct stories rather than following traditional verse-chorus forms.
The pacing is deliberate, with most tracks maintaining a slow to mid-tempo feel, allowing for introspective listening.
The last three tracks create a reflective atmosphere, gradually lowering the energy and concluding the album on a contemplative note.

Composition 25% of the score: 8/10
Craft 20% of the score: 9/10
Durability 25% of the score: 8/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 7/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 8/10

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

introspective melodies for reflection
serene soundscapes for quiet moments
storytelling that evokes nostalgia
gentle pacing for evening unwind
captivating narratives over warm instrumentation

Maybe skip if you

seeking high-energy tracks
prefer standalone anthems

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Critical Peak — Represents a significant artistic evolution and received widespread acclaim.
Themes: small-town nostalgia· historical narratives
Career context: When 'Folklore' was released in July 2020, Taylor Swift was transitioning from her commercial pop phase to a more introspective sound. This eighth studio album followed the chart-topping 'Lover' and marked a significant artistic reinvention as she embraced a more subdued, folk-inspired aesthetic during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Stylistic neighbors: Kacey Musgraves· Halsey· Lorde