Getty ImagesThe day has finally arrived—Ryan Adam's 1989 cover album has dropped. Cue the iTunes downloads.
The Grammy Award nominee released covers of 12 of Swift's tracks from her record-breaking original 1989 album. So, what can fans expect from this highly-anticipated release? If there's anything we can say for sure, it's that music lovers will want to blast these tracks with the windows down maybe even more than they did with the originals.
The newest addition to the Swift camp, Adams slowed most of the tracks down to an acoustic pace, rendering even Swift's synthetic pop ditty "Welcome to New York" unrecognizable with his haunting and simplistic new style. The renditions are every bit as romantic as the originals with an extra degree of grittiness. The tempo adjustments prove for an easier time understanding the lyrics on Swift's quickest tracks, an added bonus to fan favorites.
Adams doesn't fear straying away from the original's stylings, willing to change keys and riff unexpectedly—rejuvenating a set of songs that have been playing non-stop since their release nearly a year ago.
Always a proud cheerleader, Taylor Swift has been rooting Adams on throughout the process of this unique endeavor, posting words of encouragement to the country crooner up until Monday's release. She even credited the alternative musician with inspiring her style of songwriting. Looks like they have come full-circle!
They may have Swift's stamp of approval, but here comes the true test—how do the tracks compare to their original pop counterparts? Here's how we think they truly rank up. Happy listening!
12. "How You Get the Girl"
This version is almost indistinguishable as Adams rarely changes pace or key, turning the once catchy tune borderline stale.
11. "This Love"
Lacking any real difference from the original, both versions are insightful piano ballads. Caution: don't play while operating heavy machinery because you will doze off.
10. "Out of the Woods"
Adam's version of Swift's pulsing tune plays like a sad lullaby—a breakup song staple fit for generations to come. Move over, Adele!
9. "I Wish You Would"
Unlike the slower tracks higher up on the list, "I Wish You Would" eventually picks up tempo at the chorus, an appreciated change-up in an otherwise mellow rendition.
8. "Welcome to New York"
In the same fashion as the original, this track will immediately have you head-bobbing, but it's a pinch slower, which helps the untrained ear grasp what Swift was trying to say in her tribute to the city that never sleeps.
7. "Blank Space"
Adams does the whole song in a falsetto, adding an almost crazed theatrical flair to a song everyone has permanently engrained in their brains whether they want it there or not.
6. "Shake It Off"
Reminiscent of Bruce Springsteen, Adam's version of one of Swift's most loved tunes has a harder edge this time around, breaking out his inner rock and roller as the song reaches the climax.
5. "Wildest Dreams"
The guitars used in this set pack a new punch to the dark and sexy classic, making it even more memorable than the first time around. Unfortunately, the only thing missing is Scott Eastwood.
4. "All You Had to Do Was Stay"
This track rarely sounds like the original, but we'd listen to it on repeat all the same.
3. "I Know Places"
The new arrangement of this song is so sexy, you'll be hoping it plays the next time you make your grand entrance into a crowded bar.
2. "Bad Blood"
Once a hit, always a hit. Only this time, "Bad Blood" has been slowed down enough for us to actually sing to it without running out of breath.
1. "Style"
Adams turned this pop chart-topper into a rock and roll anthem fit for any mosh pit. You'll be jumping up and down as soon as you press play.