New releases last two weeks: Pop

Review: Having previously successfully turned her hand to house and disco - many of our top pop performers have always been shapeshifting musical magpies (hello Madonna) - Beyonce Knowles Carter has now delved into the world of country music. No doubt you'll be bored of the endless discourse around Cowboy Carter, but that doesn't stop it from being a genuinely good album - a brilliant fusion of neo-soul, r&b and, yes, country music instrumentation that wisely leaves Beyonce's incredible voice front and centre. There are some genuinely notable covers - see her takes on the Beatles 'Blackbird' and Dolly Parton's 'Jolene' (featuring an introduction from her Dollyness) stand out - but the most striking songs are by and large her own work. For proof, see 'American Requiem', 'Most Wanted' (with Miley Cyrus), 'Sweet Honey Buckin' (with Shaboozy) and 'Tyrant'.

Review: Taylor Swift is a global superstar and pop icon with over 200 million records worldwide and numerous awards, including 13 Grammys. under her belt, Known for her catchy pop songs and her outspoken personality, this is the upcoming 11th studio album by her and will feature 16 new tracks plus one bonus track. The album is said to be a departure from Swift's previous work and will explore darker and more introspective themes. Nevertheless, expect more Swift goodness if you are Swiftie. This edition is pressed on white vinyl with a 24 page booklet included.

Review: Taylor Swift's evolution from country crooner to pop sensation solidifies her status in the Tortured Poets Department as she joins the ranks of music's chief emotional architects. Through heartbreak anthems and soul-baring lyrics, Swift's discography serves as a diary of love, loss, and resilience. From 'Love Story' to 'All Too Well,' her songs resonate with listeners and capture the raw intensity of human emotion. Swift's ability to weave intricate narratives and evoke profound sentiment establishes her as a modern-day poet who navigates the complexities of life and love with eloquence and grace.

Review: The Veronicas' latest album, Gothic Summer, is a nostalgic journey that encapsulates the essence of their early 2000s success while infusing it with a modern twist. Produced by John Feldman and featuring collaborations with industry heavyweights like Travis Barker and Kerser, the album delivers a punchy mix of pop-punk, hyper-pop, and surf-rock elements. Tracks like 'Perfect' and 'Detox' exude energy reminiscent of Avril Lavigne and Operator Please, while 'Invisible' and 'Ribcage' showcase the duo's emotive vocals and songwriting depth. The album's anthemic closer, 'Jungle,' pays homage to psychedelic music of the past while offering a fresh take on the genre. With its blend of nostalgia and innovation, Gothic Summer solidifies The Veronicas' position as pop starlights while offering a compelling listening experience for both longtime fans and newcomers alike.