Miley Cyrus, a country, pop, and more recently, rock singer, released her album titled Plastic Hearts Nov. 27. Following her widely popular cover of “Heart of Glass” (originally sung by Blondie), fans anticipated a more grungy, rock album from Cyrus. Many speculated that the release would solidify her sound and style. Typically a pop artist, Cyrus is known for her numerous hits such as “Wrecking Ball,” “We Can’t Stop” and “Malibu.” This solo album follows her 2019 six-track EP SHE IS COMING, which set her up for a change in stylistic choices.
Before the album dropped, Cyrus released her hit single “Midnight Sky,” debuting at No. 14 on the Billboard Hot 100.
The opening track, “WTF Do I Know” starts strong with an energetic, intense sound, which is exciting to listen to. Cyrus alludes to her ex-husband, Liam Hemsworth, throughout the song, stating that she won’t apologize for moving on. The pre-chorus does not beat around the bush, with lines such as, “Am I wrong that I moved on, and I don’t even miss you?” Her punkish pop style shines in this song with strong bass lines and electric guitar.
The album’s title track, “Plastic Hearts,” is a punchy song with powerful vocals that soar over the song’s instruments. The song’s title refers to how Cyrus feels about toxic people and how they have fake or “plastic” hearts.
Three tracks in, “Angels Like You” slows down for a sappy song about Cyrus’ past relationships. Lyrics such as “Angels like you can’t fly down here with me” and “It’s not your fault I can’t be what you need” refer to her difficult breakups in recent years. Many speculate that this song is specifically about blogger Kaitlynn Carter. Cyrus and Carter dated after they both split with their ex-husbands.
The leading single, “Midnight Sky,” was initially released as a single Aug. 14. This disco-pop track is fast-paced and fiery about being a free spirit and belonging to yourself. This is showcased throughout the song with lyrics such as, “I was born to run, I don’t belong to anyone,” and “I don’t need to be loved by you.” Cyrus gives off a sense of freedom after being held down in relationships and finally being good on her own.
Track 9, “Hate Me,” is an odd pair of dark lyrics with a lifting sound. Throughout the song, Cyrus sings about how the negative talk about her would become positive if she passed away. She is not shy of the subject, singing, “I wonder what would happen if I die” and “maybe that day you won’t hate me.” It is not uncommon for artists to have a better image of them once they pass, knowing that no more music will be coming.
Cyrus’ raspy voice and punchy lyrics are perfectly suited for the new rocker style she has taken on. This 12-track album debuted at No. 2 on the Billboard 200 and at No. 1 on the Billboard Top Rock Album Charts. Cyrus created an outstanding work of art from many good and bad experiences, making it a very relatable album for her listeners. Touching on topics everyone goes through, it is easy for many audiences to listen to and enjoy. For these reasons, Plastic Hearts earns a 4/5.