Miley Cyrus ‘Something Beautiful’ Review: Post-Genre Popstar’s Bold New Era
Miley Cyrus ‘Something Beautiful’ Review: Post-Genre Popstar’s Bold New Era
Explore Miley Cyrus’s latest album ‘Something Beautiful,’ showcasing her fearless post-genre style and unparalleled vocal prowess.
A Chameleon in the Music World
Miley Cyrus has long been celebrated as a musical shapeshifter, effortlessly moving between styles and genres. From the provocative R&B vibes of her 2013 album Bangerz to the psychedelic sounds assisted by The Flaming Lips in Miley Cyrus & Her Dead Petz (2015), she’s never been one to stick to a single lane.
Her 2020 record Plastic Hearts saw Miley diving into spiky ’80s rock, while 2023’s Endless Summer Vacation embraced sparkling California dance-pop. But these genre-hopping years have evolved into a new phase: Miley is now a true post-genre pop star. She makes music on her own terms, confident she can pull off whatever style inspires her next.
Her once-raspy Disney Channel voice has matured into a formidable instrument that adapts effortlessly to any sound she chooses to explore.
Introducing ‘Something Beautiful’: A Cinematic Album Experience
Miley’s ninth studio album, Something Beautiful, comes hand-in-hand with a musical film she describes as her “way of touring” without hitting the road. The film premieres on June 6, shortly after the album’s May 30 release, offering fans a visual companion that adds depth to the record.
Even without the visuals, Something Beautiful stands strong as a standalone album. It’s cinematic yet avoids the trap of cheesy, cliché spy-movie themes. It’s more like what Fleetwood Mac might have crafted for an ’80s blockbuster soundtrack.
Collaborations and Musical Influences
Miley worked with a diverse group of collaborators on this album:
- Rock producer Shawn Everett
- Jonathan Rado from indie duo Foxygen
- Punk drummer Maxx Morando, who also happens to be her romantic partner
This mix brings a fresh, cinematic quality that’s both bold and sophisticated.
Take the track “Golden Burning Sun” — it’s like a lost Fleetwood Mac song tailored for a stylish ’80s movie. The lead single “End of the World” may not have stormed the charts, but its smooth, drivetime groove and Beatles-referencing lyric (“throw a party like McCartney with some help from our friends”) add a warm, nostalgic charm.
Meanwhile, “Walk of Fame” features Brittany Howard of Alabama Shakes and blends disco-rock energy reminiscent of Plastic Hearts but with new flavors inspired by Lady Gaga and Frankie Goes to Hollywood.
High Camp, Bold Sounds, and Nostalgia
The 13-track, 53-minute album unapologetically embraces a wide range of sounds, many tinged with ’80s flair.
- “Every Girl You’ve Ever Loved” features Naomi Campbell encouraging listeners to “pose, pose, pose!” over beats that echo the Pet Shop Boys’ dance-pop majesty. It’s perfectly high camp.
- “Easy Lover,” inspired by Beyoncé’s Cowboy Carter album, takes a page from Miley’s country-tinged 2017 record Younger Now.
Then there’s “Reborn,” which feels like an Andrew Lloyd Webber show tune imagined after a mild psychedelic trip — a daring, sprawling moment that stands apart from today’s typical chart fodder.
“Her distinctive voice, which once sounded remarkably raspy for a Disney Channel star, now just sounds like a formidable instrument.”
Album Details
- Record label: Columbia
- Release date: May 30, 2025
Final Thoughts
With Something Beautiful, Miley Cyrus proves once again that she’s not just another pop star riding trends. Instead, she’s a fearless post-genre artist who takes big swings and crafts deeply personal, cinematic music that defies easy classification.
Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to her music, this album invites you to embrace its adventurous spirit and rich soundscapes.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What genres does ‘Something Beautiful’ explore?
The album spans rock, disco, country, indie, and cinematic influences, showcasing Miley’s post-genre style. - Is ‘Something Beautiful’ connected to a visual project?
Yes, Miley accompanies the album with a musical film premiering on June 6, enhancing the album’s cinematic feel. - Who collaborated with Miley on this album?
Notable collaborators include Shawn Everett, Jonathan Rado, and Maxx Morando. - Does ‘Something Beautiful’ have any standout singles?
“End of the World” is the lead single, while tracks like “Walk of Fame” and “Every Girl You’ve Ever Loved” also shine. - How does this album compare to Miley’s previous work?
It’s less about chart hits and more of a fully realized artistic statement, continuing her evolution as a versatile and fearless artist.
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