Olivia Rodrigo (“drivers license”) surprises us with an unexpected yet pleasant collection of songs added onto “GUTS,” in the new extended version “GUTS (spilled).” With a mixture of electric and acoustic guitar, heartfelt lyrics and beautiful rhythm, this entire album should be added to your summer playlist. 

Listening to the original songs on the album, including “all-american b*tch” and “bad idea right?” you would expect more grunge and rock songs, not dissimilar to the pieces written by Avril Lavigne (“Girlfriend”). However, we do not see songs in that department, and we instead receive a more melancholic assortment, more akin to Noah Kahan (“Stick Season”).

It is no surprise that some fans anticipated a larger arrangement of rock or grunge, the same as what had previously been released. However, the gut-wrenching, and also a tad depressing, lyrics are not difficult to appreciate. Within the song “scared of my guitar” we hear the lyrics “so we’ll stay together ‘cause how could I ever trade something’ that’s good for what’s right?” Although this song is heavy on the lyricism, we do continue to hear an acoustic guitar in the background playing harmonic melodies and striking chords. It is also clear that this song is about running away from the truth and seeing reminders in day-to-day life, which many people can resonate with.

Another thing to note about this album is the idea of heartbreak and loss that Rodrigo is trying to convey. In the song “stranger,” the lyrics “you’re just a stranger I know everything about” highlight the feeling of losing someone and reflecting on how the relationship used to be. 

Within the new songs and the album overall, we see Rodrigo play around with melody and speed as well. In the song “vampire” we start off listening to a slow, peaceful ballad, only to go into a fast-paced pop song. We can also hear a similar switch up in “all-american b*tch” from slow spoken word to a punky guitar and voice-driven song. 

Rodrigo also continues to experiment with quirky rhythms and unique techniques. In the song “so american” we hear “Oh God, I’m gonna marry him/If he keeps this sh*t up/I might just be in lo-lo-lo-lo-lo-lo-lo-lo-lo-lo-lo-love.” We also experience a fun moment in “girl i’ve always been.” At the beginning of the song, we hear a clip of Rodrigo speaking. This choice to keep that clip in only adds to the stimulating nature of the album and showcases Rodrigo’s playful personality. The blending of captivating features, upbeat lyrics and fun vocals are collectively fun and memorable, and all-around entertaining.

“GUTS (spilled)” is overall a catchy pop-punk album that many young women can relate to. Her lyricism and rocky melodies truly pull it together. Her extension to the album “GUTS” balances the pop-punk with slow melancholic ballads and every piece rounds out harmoniously. It is refreshing to see how Olivia has grown into her true style of music, and over time she will only perfect it and truly find her place in the music world.

Image by @polydor via YouTube