Miley Cyrus’ ‘Something Beautiful’ is a return to form in music

Longtime Miley Cyrus fans are in for a treat with her ninth studio album, “Something Beautiful,” living up to its title. The Grammy winner showcases her prowess as a pop star, drawing from her deep understanding of contemporary music genres and history, evident through her cover performances and expansive discography. Notably, Cyrus ventured into a glam rock-inspired zone in her 2020 concept album, “Plastic Hearts.”

In “Something Beautiful,” Cyrus masterfully blends an array of musical elements, including pop, rock, electronic, disco, and funk. Tracks like “Easy Lover” exude soulfulness and heartache, underscoring the album’s diverse musical landscape. Drawing inspiration from ABBA, songs like “End of the World” carry traces of ’70s nostalgia, intertwined with Cyrus’ powerhouse vocals and rich instrumentation reminiscent of her earlier work in “Can’t Be Tamed.”

Accompanying the album is a musical film of the same name, set to debut at the Tribeca Film Festival in June. Although the opening track, “Prelude,” introduces the album as a film score, the collection stands out on its own, showcasing Cyrus’ evolution across two decades in music. “More To Lose” and “Walk of Fame” echo her earlier sound, resonating with the essence of her early hits while displaying her growth as an artist.

Cyrus successfully navigates various musical eras, as evidenced in tracks like “Pretend You’re God,” embodying the psychedelic vibe reminiscent of her 2015 album, “Miley Cyrus & Her Dead Petz.” The album’s cohesion may stem from the structured approach influenced by the film, ensuring a seamless journey through its eclectic pieces, a feat previously challenging in her discography.

A pronounced shift to electronic sounds in the album’s latter half, particularly in tracks like “Reborn” and “Every Girl You’ve Ever Loved,” signifies Cyrus’ sonic evolution and expansion. The infusion of Lady Gaga-esque tones in “Every Girl You’ve Ever Loved” adds a refreshing touch to the album. This record marks a return to Cyrus’ roots, bridging her pop star persona with her penchant for exploring diverse musical styles.

Overall, “Something Beautiful” serves as a testament to Cyrus’ musical evolution and versatility, showcasing her ability to immerse herself in various genres while maintaining her distinct artistic voice. With this album, Cyrus not only delights her dedicated fan base but also offers a glimpse into the ever-evolving musical journey of a seasoned artist.