Review Summary: Summer Vacation Arrives Early!
Pop sensation and former teen idol Miley Cyrus is back with unironically one of the most bouncy, vibrant, and enjoyable modern pop records of the year thus far. Summer vacation is here early with sun-soaked vibes, bright and easy-listening melodies that are surefire radio smashes that we will be assaulted with constantly throughout the summer months. Pool parties will be soundtracked, nighttime beach raves will be energized, this is a record that will be unstoppable this year and fortunately, it’s actually a really decent album.
With the release of the massive hit “Flowers,” I was expecting to be underwhelmed with the rest of the record considering the infectious, breezy anthem qualities of that first single and then not being previewed with any other tracks before album release, to my chagrin. I was pleasantly surprised to hear that the quality extends pass the first track with a streak of massive bops. “Jaded” features lovelorn lyrics and a massive chorus with idyllic, bright synthesizer melodies to complement the rasp of Cyrus’ voice. “Rose Colored Lenses” offers a sort of dream pop fusion with deeply psychedelic and cloudy melodies coupled with a slow-moving tempo; kind of Beach House-esque. The massively impressive tune “Thousand Miles” featuring the incomparable Brandi Carlile fuses light country elements with almost 90’s alternative R&B, pulling together one of the best choruses I’ve heard all year along with amazing vocal performances by both Cyrus and Carlile. It feels odd to gush over a modern pop record, but the songs continue to impress even after this slew of high quality to begin the album.
One of the more surprising elements on this record is how solid the lyrics are as well. The closing track “Wonder Woman” in concept, isn’t breaking new ground with its messaging of a strong woman who has vulnerable moments but refuses to be put down or give up in the face of adversity but coupled with Cyrus’ strong, passionate vocal performance allows for that message to be elevated and highlighted in the best of ways. “Muddy Feet” featuring the talented Sia is much more direct and vulgar in its message of not having any tolerance for cheaters and honestly, while it’s quips are simple, it’s very effective and is sold so well by both Sia and Cyrus. “River” is a simple love anthem with sexy lyrics sure to inspire positive femininity and lots of dancing.
The quality of Cyrus’ work continues to rise with ‘Plastic Hearts’ showing substantial growth and maturity following a slew of horrendously produced and uninspired records to kick-off her adult career. ‘Endless Summer Vacation’ shifts gears stylistically but continues that growth with a more refined vocal palette, better songwriting and more focused ideas. It’s always exciting to see a redemption arc and to witness an artist coming into their own after a long battle with mediocrity. Cyrus’ battle with the limelight is long and storied but I feel like everything has come full circle to a point where she can finally reap the benefits from her natural talent thanks to a very high-quality release. I look forward to her continued success and am shocked to say that I’m excited to see what she does next.
Highlights:
“Thousand Miles” ft. Brandi Carlile
“Jaded”
“Rose Colored Lenses”
“River”
“Wonder Woman”
