Taylor Swift’s new album folklore is a surprise – not just because she kept it secret until a few hours before its release, but because it’s largely a collaboration with The National’s (and antifa’s) Aaron Dessner. As it turns out, Swift’s lyrical prowess and seemingly limitless gift for pop hooks match perfectly with Dessner’s organic, meditative and often minimalist arrangements.
I’m intrigued by the idea of folklore as a gateway to the broader universe of indie and alternative sounds for some Swifties. If that is actually a thing, here’s a 100-song playlist that I think complements the album’s general vibe, while hopefully opening a few doors into nearby musical spaces.