Taylor Swift’s “1989,” which was released Oct. 27, takes a direction toward pop with its strong vocals and nostalgic sound.

Although Swift’s early, twang-inspired country albums had some pop, “1989” is absolutely pop for better or worse. The better parts of this album include her spectacularly ’80s synthesized track “Welcome to New York,” which is filled with a crackling, electronic energy that acts as a stepping stone toward her own take on a superior pop sound.

“Blank Space,” a soulful R&B track, takes playful jabs at Swift’s relationships. She explains in one line how she “got a long list of ex-lovers, they’ll tell you I’m insane. Cause you know I love the players and you love the game.”

“Style” is a track we all expected, as many of Swift’s songs allude to her famous ex-boyfriends and this one is quite obviously about former flame Harry Styles. The song fits its name with Swift’s smooth melody paired with a bouncy electronic rhythm heard in earlier tracks.

These three songs sparkle brightly on an album that feels far too generic despite Swift’s attempts to sound otherwise. This is shown quite vividly through Swift’s single, “Shake It Off,” which proved to be wildly popular but at its bare bones is filled with cringe-worthy moments, such as her attempt at rap. I can’t believe I’m saying this, but rapping is not Swift’s strong suit. The album is thankfully saved by the powerful vocals of “Welcome to New York.”

“1989” is guilty of generic tracks, but smooth vocals backed by synthesized electronica are a nostalgic trip back to the title year of the album. Hopefully, Swift realizes the wonderful mix of these two sounds. This album feels more like an experiment rather than a fully realized form. She dipped her toes into the world of pop in “Red,” but took a running leap and plunged into it with “1989.”

The poppy-ness of “1989” is its strongest and weakest parts. When the pop in Swift’s songs fits well, it is certainly successful and even amazing; but, when the pop doesn’t fit well, it sounds like a generic song.