Review of Miley Cyrus’ latest album falls flat while Gloria Estefan makes a triumphant comeback

Miley Cyrus, known for her wild and boundary-pushing music, has recently released her new album “Something Beautiful.” The album seems to be infected with the idea of “big, beautiful,” a concept that has been causing issues in Washington DC with regards to Donald Trump’s tax bill. Much like her 2015 album Miley Cyrus and her Dead Petz, this new album shows Cyrus going down a slippery slope in her creative endeavors, despite the success of her previous album Bangerz in 2013. Drawing inspiration from Alan Parker’s surreal drama film “The Wall,” which was influenced by the Pink Floyd album of the same name, Cyrus embarked on creating an album that explores the idea of beauty being subjective.
The album kicks off with the title track, a ballad with horns that eventually gives way to distorted vocals and rock guitar. “End of the World” follows, a song that stands out due to its piano parts reminiscent of Abba’s “Dancing Queen.” Throughout the album, Cyrus pays homage to various influences such as 1970s producer Giorgio Moroder and explores indie rock with tracks like “Golden Burning Sun.” While the album seems to hint at a desire for a visual project with catchy hooks akin to Instagram Reels, the effort falls short in consistency. The highlight of the album is “Every Girl You’ve Ever Loved,” featuring a cameo from Naomi Campbell, where Cyrus delivers an explosive performance, showcasing her vocal range and charisma.
In contrast, PinkPantheress, a British singer-songwriter, has found success by keeping her music concise and to the point. Her mixtape “Fancy That” features nine songs that span only 21 minutes, a testament to her ability to convey her musical influences effectively within a short time frame. Collaborating with Norwegian co-producer/co-writer Aksel Arvid, PinkPantheress incorporates clever samples and interpolations from artists like Basement Jaxx, Underworld, William Orbit, and Panic! at the Disco, culminating in a mixtape with fast, catchy hooks that leave a lasting impression.
On a different note, Latin-pop legend Gloria Estefan has made a triumphant return to her roots with her new album “Raices.” Singing in Spanish, Estefan reflects on love and her cultural heritage, channeling the sounds of Cuba, Colombia, and Panama into a cohesive work that celebrates life and optimism. From nostalgic tracks like “La Vecina” and “Yo Quiero Ser” to energetic songs like “Chirriqui Chirri” and “Te Juro,” Estefan proves that she is still a force to be reckoned with in the Latin music scene.
Lastly, the Grateful Dead, a legendary band with a storied history, is being celebrated in a new box set titled “Enjoying the Ride.” Released by Rhino record label to commemorate six decades since the band’s inception, the collection features complete shows from 20 iconic venues that have become synonymous with the band’s timeless music. With a total of 60 discs, including visits to venues like Winterland and Madison Square Garden, this box set is a treasure trove for fans of the Grateful Dead, offering a glimpse into the band’s electrifying live performances that have captivated audiences for generations.