Hidden among Netflix's vast catalogue of international titles lies a gothic gem that many viewers have yet to discover—'Errementari: The Blacksmith and the Devil.' Released in 2017 and directed by Basque filmmaker Paul Urkijo Alijo, this Spanish-language dark fantasy film offers a masterful blend of folklore, horror, and moral storytelling that rivals some of Hollywood's biggest fantasy productions.

Yet, despite its striking visuals and profound themes, 'Errementari' remains one of Netflix's most underrated releases.

What is 'Errementari' About?

Set in 19th-century northern Spain, 'Errementari' reimagines an old Basque legend about a blacksmith who traps a demon in his forge. The film follows a government investigator who stumbles upon a reclusive smith, Patxi, living in isolation. When a curious orphan girl, Usue, ventures into his workshop, she discovers that Patxi’s dark secret involves a literal demon chained in his cellar.

Image Courtesy: IMDb

What unfolds is a haunting yet surprisingly human story about guilt, salvation, and the blurred lines between good and evil.

Also Read: https://indigomusic.com/feature/the-rise-of-psychological-horror-why-mind-bending-fear-is-dominating-screens-10586447

'Errementari' Vs Other Horror Movies

What makes 'Errementari' stand out is its ability to weave local folklore into a visually rich and emotionally layered narrative. Unlike many dark fantasy films that rely heavily on spectacle, Alijo's direction prioritises atmosphere and authenticity. The film's rustic setting—with its dimly lit forges, medieval villages, and ash-covered landscapes—creates a tactile, almost storybook-like world that feels both ancient and alive.

Every frame is drenched in gothic beauty, drawing viewers into a place where myth and morality collide.

Image Courtesy: IMDb

'Errementari' Deserves More Recognition

Another reason 'Errementari' deserves more recognition is its striking use of practical effects and makeup. Instead of leaning on CGI, the film embraces old-school craftsmanship to bring its demons and hellish visions to life. The result is a more grounded and unsettling experience, reminiscent of classic fantasy-horror works like 'Pan's Labyrinth' or 'The Devil's Backbone.'

Beyond its visual artistry, 'Errementari' explores timeless themes with surprising emotional depth. It questions the nature of sin, forgiveness, and human suffering—portraying even the devil with a touch of empathy. The film challenges the idea of absolute morality, suggesting that true damnation comes not from external forces but from the guilt we carry within.

Image Courtesy: IMDb

Ultimately, 'Errementari: The Blacksmith and the Devil' is a hauntingly beautiful fusion of folklore and fantasy that deserves far more attention than it has received. For viewers seeking something atmospheric, intelligent, and deeply human, this forgotten Netflix treasure is a must-watch—a dark fairytale forged in fire and soul.

Also Read: https://indigomusic.com/feature/why-nostalgia-made-jumanji-a-perfect-franchise-revival-10571642

Mysterious lights flickering in the distance, leading travellers astray—this is the essence of the Will-o'-the-Wisp, a ghostly phenomenon that has captivated cultures worldwide. Often associated with spirits, trickery, and the supernatural, these enigmatic lights have inspired legends across different regions, each with its own unique interpretation.

European Folklore: Spirits of the Marsh

In European folklore, the Will-o'-the-Wisp is often depicted as a mischievous spirit leading wanderers into dangerous marshlands. In England, it is known as Jack-o’-Lantern or Hobby Lantern, linked to the legend of a man named Jack who was doomed to roam the earth with only a burning coal in a carved turnip to light his way.

In Ireland and Scotland, the ‘fairy fire’ is associated with spirits or fairies playing tricks on unsuspecting travellers. In some versions, these lights are believed to be the souls of the dead, unable to find rest. The name ‘Ignis Fatuus’ (meaning ‘foolish fire’ in Latin) reflects the belief that those who follow the lights are being deceived.

North and South America: Omens and Trickster Spirits

In Latin American folklore, the ‘Luz Mala’ (‘Evil Light’) is a supernatural phenomenon believed to be the spirit of the dead, especially those who were never given a proper burial. People in Argentina and Uruguay believe encountering the Luz Mala can bring misfortune or even death. Some say prayers or salt can ward off its ill effects.

In the United States, similar ghost lights are reported in various regions. The Marfa Lights of Texas and the Brown Mountain Lights of North Carolina have been linked to legends of lost spirits, Native American folklore, or supernatural entities. Some believe these lights are the spirits of lost souls searching for peace.

Asian Interpretations: Spirits and Lost Souls

In Japan, the Hitodama are ghostly orbs believed to be the souls of the dead, often appearing near graveyards. These lights are thought to be spirits lingering before moving to the afterlife. Similarly, in China, "鬼火" (Guǐ Huǒ) or ‘ghost fire’ is associated with spirits returning to the world of the living, often as a warning or a sign of unfinished business.

African and Indigenous Australian Folklore

In Africa, some regions have stories of witchlights or spirit flames that lead people astray. These lights are sometimes connected to ancestors guiding or warning the living.

Among Aboriginal Australians, the Min Min Lights are a well-known phenomenon described as floating lights that follow travellers. Some believe these lights are spirits of the dead, while others consider them an omen of bad luck or danger.

Folklore Meets Science

While these myths have persisted for centuries, modern science offers explanations for Will-o'-the-Wisps. The leading theory suggests that decaying organic matter in marshlands releases gases like methane and phosphine, which ignite upon contact with oxygen, creating the illusion of flickering lights. However, the persistence of these stories across different cultures shows that the mystery and allure of the Will-o'-the-Wisp remain as strong as ever.

Whether seen as spirits, trickster entities, or natural phenomena, the Will-o'-the-Wisp continues to spark curiosity and wonder, keeping the myth alive for generations to come.

Also Read: The Science Behind Zoetrope Vinyl: How Optical Illusions Enhance Music

---Silviya.Y

The harp is one of the oldest and most revered musical instruments in human history, appearing in myths, legends, and folklore across cultures. Often associated with divine inspiration, magic, and the power to move hearts, the harp has played a central role in tales of gods, heroes, and supernatural beings. Whether in Celtic mythology, Greek legends, or Biblical stories, the harp has long been a symbol of beauty, wisdom, and enchantment.

The Harp in Celtic Mythology

Nowhere is the harp more deeply embedded in folklore than in Celtic traditions. The instrument was believed to possess magical properties, capable of controlling emotions and even shaping the natural world.

The Harp of Dagda: The Instrument of the Gods

One of the most famous harps in mythology belongs to Dagda, the great god of the Tuatha Dé Danann, the mythical race of deities in Irish legend. His harp, known as the Uaithne or the Four-Angled Music, was said to have the power to control the seasons and the emotions of those who heard it.

According to legend, Dagda's harp was stolen by the Fomorians, a group of supernatural beings often portrayed as the enemies of the Tuatha Dé Danann. When Dagda found his harp, he played three mystical tunes:

The Song of Joy, which made everyone dance.

The Song of Sorrow, which caused deep mourning.

The Song of Sleep, which lulled everyone into slumber.

This story illustrates the belief that harp music could influence the soul and the forces of nature, making it one of the most powerful instruments in Celtic mythology.

The Enchanted Harp of Fairies

Irish folklore is rich with tales of fairy harpers—supernatural beings whose music could lead listeners into otherworldly realms. Harpers who wandered the countryside were often thought to have been taught by the fairies or to possess a harp enchanted with magical properties.

One famous tale tells of a harper who stumbled upon a fairy mound and was invited to play for the fairy court. He played so beautifully that the fairies gifted him with a harp that would never go out of tune. However, when he returned to the human world, he discovered that a hundred years had passed overnight—a common theme in Irish folklore.

The Harp in Greek and Biblical Traditions

Orpheus: The Divine Musician

In Greek mythology, the harp’s counterpart was the lyre, an instrument closely associated with Orpheus, the legendary musician and poet. Orpheus was said to have received his lyre from Apollo, the god of music, and his playing was so divine that it could tame wild animals, make trees dance, and even charm the gods of the underworld.

His most famous story involves his journey to the underworld to rescue his beloved Eurydice. Using the power of his music, he softened the hearts of Hades and Persephone, convincing them to let Eurydice return—though he ultimately lost her due to his own doubt. This legend reinforces the idea of music as a force capable of transcending life and death.

The Harp of King David

The harp is also a significant symbol in Biblical tradition, most notably linked to King David. According to the Old Testament, David was a skilled harpist who played music to soothe King Saul’s troubled spirit. His harp became a metaphor for divine inspiration and spiritual healing, reinforcing the idea that music could bring peace and comfort.

The Harp’s Enduring Legacy in Folklore

Throughout history, the harp has remained a symbol of wisdom, emotion, and supernatural power. Whether played by gods, fairies, or legendary musicians, it has been consistently depicted as an instrument capable of transforming the world through its melodies.

Even today, echoes of these myths can be found in modern fantasy literature, films, and music, ensuring that the harp’s magical reputation continues to inspire new generations.

---Silviya.Y

Slavic mythology is rich with supernatural beings that inhabit the natural world, and among the most intriguing is Mavka, a spirit of the forest known for her ethereal beauty and mysterious nature. Often depicted as a young woman with long, flowing hair and deep green eyes, Mavka embodies both the enchanting and perilous aspects of nature. Her legend has been passed down through generations, inspiring literature, music, and, more recently, animation.

Origins and Folkloric Depictions

Mavka originates from Ukrainian and broader Slavic folklore, where she is considered a type of rusalka, or water nymph. Unlike some rusalki, who dwell in lakes and rivers, Mavka is closely tied to the forests and meadows. She is often described as a spirit of a young woman who died prematurely, particularly under tragic circumstances, such as unfulfilled love or an untimely death. In many tales, she lacks a shadow, symbolizing her ghostly nature.

Characteristics and Behaviour

Mavka is typically portrayed as a benevolent yet elusive being. She is deeply connected to the natural world, often acting as a guardian of the forest. In some stories, she helps lost travellers find their way, while in others, she lures them deeper into the woods, sometimes to their doom.

A defining characteristic of Mavka is her captivating beauty. She appears as a stunning maiden, sometimes wearing a wreath of wildflowers or dressed in flowing garments made of leaves and vines. However, despite her alluring presence, Mavka is often depicted as a tragic figure—her spirit tied to the land, unable to fully interact with the living world.

Mavka and Love: A Double-Edged Theme

One of the most famous portrayals of Mavka comes from Lesya Ukrainka’s 1911 play ‘The Forest Song’, which presents her as a deeply emotional and romantic figure. In this story, Mavka falls in love with a human man, Lukash, and struggles between her supernatural existence and human desires. This version of Mavka emphasizes themes of love, loss, and the consequences of humans exploiting nature.

Throughout Slavic myths, love is often a central theme in Mavka’s stories, yet it is rarely a happy one. She may be depicted as a spirit seeking affection, only to be betrayed or abandoned. Alternatively, she can be a vengeful figure who punishes unfaithful lovers, reflecting the dual nature of nature itself—both nurturing and destructive.

Symbolism and Cultural Significance

Mavka symbolizes the wild, untamed forces of nature. She represents both the beauty and danger of the forests, reminding people of their deep connection to the land. In Ukrainian culture, she has become a symbol of national identity, representing both resilience and the fragile relationship between humans and nature.

Her influence extends beyond folklore into modern interpretations, including art, ballet, and animation. The 2023 animated film ‘Mavka: The Forest Song’ reimagines her as a protector of nature, bringing her legend to a global audience and reinforcing her role as an emblem of ecological awareness.

Mavka’s legend endures because it captures the timeless themes of love, loss, and humanity’s relationship with nature. Whether as a benevolent guide, a tragic lover, or a vengeful spirit, she continues to inspire artists and storytellers. In a world increasingly disconnected from nature, Mavka serves as a poignant reminder of the enchantment and mystery found in the wild forests of Slavic mythology.

---Silviya.Y

Anthropomorphism, the attribution of human traits, emotions, and intentions to non-human entities, is a pervasive theme across cultures and time periods. From ancient deities to contemporary storytelling, anthropomorphic figures have played significant roles in shaping narratives, conveying moral lessons, and reflecting societal values. Let’s explore how different cultures depict anthropomorphic characters in their myths and folktales, illustrating the diversity and depth of this literary device.

Ancient Civilizations: Gods and Nature

In ancient civilizations, anthropomorphism was often employed to explain natural phenomena and human experiences through the personification of gods and animals. In Greek mythology, the pantheon of gods, including Zeus, Athena, and Hermes, were depicted with human-like traits, emotions, and relationships. These deities were not only powerful forces of nature but also relatable figures embodying human virtues and vices, making them accessible to the worshippers who sought their favour.

Similarly, in Egyptian mythology, gods like Anubis and Bastet were represented as part human and part animal, symbolizing their divine attributes and roles within the cosmos. Anubis, the jackal-headed god of the afterlife, reflects the ancient Egyptians’ reverence for animals and their connection to the afterlife. This anthropomorphism served to make the abstract concepts of life, death, and the divine more tangible and relatable to the culture’s beliefs and practices.

Native American Mythology: Animals as Teachers

In Native American folklore, anthropomorphism often appears through the portrayal of animals as central figures in creation stories and moral lessons. Trickster figures, such as Coyote and Raven, embody human-like qualities while teaching important life lessons through their antics. These characters are not simply humourous; they reveal deeper truths about human nature and the world.

For instance, the Coyote in many tribes’ stories serves as a representation of adaptability and intelligence, albeit often coupled with foolishness. These tales communicate cultural values, such as the importance of balance, humility, and respect for nature. By giving animals human characteristics, these stories create a bridge between humans and the natural world, emphasizing the interconnectedness of all living beings.

Asian Mythologies: Deities and Spirits

In Asian cultures, anthropomorphism is prevalent in both mythology and folklore, often seen in the depiction of deities, spirits, and supernatural beings. In Hinduism, gods like Ganesha, with an elephant’s head on a human body, exemplify the blending of human and animal traits. Ganesha symbolizes wisdom, intellect, and the removal of obstacles, illustrating how anthropomorphic figures can convey complex ideas in relatable forms.

Similarly, in Japanese folklore, the concept of yokai encompasses a variety of supernatural creatures, many of which exhibit human characteristics. From the playful kitsune (fox spirit) to the mischievous tanuki (raccoon dog), these anthropomorphic beings reflect the rich tapestry of Japanese culture, where the boundaries between the human and the supernatural are fluid. The yokai serve not only as entertaining stories but also as metaphors for human behaviour and societal norms.

Modern Interpretations: Anthropomorphism in Literature and Media

In contemporary literature and media, anthropomorphism continues to thrive, often as a way to engage audiences with complex themes. From George Orwell’s Animal Farm to contemporary animated films like Zootopia, anthropomorphic characters are used to explore societal issues, such as politics, discrimination, and morality.

In Animal Farm, Orwell employs anthropomorphism to critique totalitarian regimes and the corruption of revolutionary ideals. The animals on the farm, with their distinct personalities and human-like struggles, serve as allegories for human society, illustrating the ease with which power can corrupt.

Similarly, Zootopia uses anthropomorphic animals to address themes of prejudice and diversity. By placing animals in human-like societal roles, the film encourages viewers to confront their biases and consider the complexities of identity and acceptance. This modern twist on anthropomorphism allows for a fresh exploration of age-old themes while remaining relevant to contemporary audiences.

The Universal Appeal of Anthropomorphism

Across cultures and time periods, anthropomorphism serves as a powerful storytelling device that transcends language and societal barriers. By imbuing non-human characters with human traits, storytellers can create relatable figures that resonate with audiences, conveying moral lessons and cultural values in engaging ways.

The diversity of anthropomorphic figures in folklore and mythology reflects the shared human experience, highlighting universal themes of identity, morality, and the connection between humanity and the natural world. From ancient gods to modern characters, anthropomorphism remains a vital part of cultural storytelling, inviting audiences to explore the depths of their own humanity through the lens of the extraordinary.

Also Read: The Dark Side of Anthropomorphism: Analyzing Characters in Horror

Anthropomorphism is not merely a literary device; it is a reflection of how cultures understand and relate to the world around them. Through the ages, anthropomorphic characters in folklore and mythology have helped bridge the gap between the human experience and the larger universe, offering insight into societal values, fears, and hopes. By examining these figures across different cultures, we gain a deeper appreciation for the role of storytelling in shaping human understanding and connection.

--Silviya.Y

Taylor Swift Puts all the conspiracy theories to rest about an easter egg found on "folklore" artwork. We all know the singer is big on engaging her fans with leaving out clues and we all thought she definitely did that, once again. However, turns out, that's out of the woods.

The Pop sensation Taylor Swift has had a busy yet productive and fun 2020. From releasing two studio albums in less than five months, "folklore" and "evermore" respectively, the singer has made it to the news again. As “fanspiracies” float around about a third album coming up, Taylor has cleared the air.

Here’s What Really Happened

Fans were quick to spot a word, "Woodvale" on the cover and quickly assumed another album release. The singer’s fans have read into it as a possible title of an upcoming THIRD album, following evermore. Is this true? Not really, apparently, it's all a big mistake from Taylor Swift's end.

When Taylor Took It Too Far!

Well, Taylor herself appeared on the Jimmy Kimmel Live to clear the air. The singer clarified that it was all a mistake and that there is no album by the name, much to fans’ disappointment. The ‘Love Story’ singer went on to explain although Jimmy did not seem to buy the explanation entirely. Here’s what she had to say:

“OK, well this takes a bit of explanation. So, I tend to be sort of annoyingly secret agent-y about dropping clues and hints and Easter eggs. And it’s very annoying. But it’s fun for fans and it’s fun for me because they like to pick up on things. And they’ll notice things in music videos or whatever. Then, sometimes I take it too far and I make a mistake. Basically, when I was making folklore, the album that came out back in July, I was too afraid to unveil the title of the album to even my closest teammates or management.”

Apparently, Swift went around the town telling people that she was working on an album called “Woodvale”. All those people only went on to find the release of “folklore” in July.

In order to sound more convincing, the singer went on to say “I didn’t tell anybody the album title until it came out. So, I came up with a fake code name that had the same amount of letters as folklore. Chose a random name. Chose Woodvale. Wanted to see how it would look on the album covers. Mocked them up. Then decided, I don’t really want the title on the album covers. Then forgot to take the fake code name off of one.”

What’s Coming Next?

Well, since she has previously played this game of leaving clues behind, we can see why fans caught on to it and believed the theories. Although, it did disappoint, Taylor still has a pretty busy year-end.

Following her feud with Scooter Braun, Taylor Swift has begun re-recording all of her masters. Thanks to Ryan Reynolds for sharing a snippet of what is to come with us. The actor used the snippet to complement his own commercial for Match.com, with the singer’s permission of course!

We can’t wait to listen to the new renditions of our old favourites! Till then, watch the video as Taylor clears the air with a sneaky grin

By: Aatira Kakroo

This week, the music industry has been witness to a flurry of activity. There's been a downpour of award show news and new releases. Over the past few days, Miley Cyrus her anticipated studio album, "Plastic Hearts", the Grammys dropped their nominee list, and more.

But, that's not all. The music world has also been drenched in quite a bit of drama this week. The Weeknd expressed his anger towards the Recording Academy, and was supported by many. BLACKPINK teased a new mega-project and Shawn Mendes' documentary, 'In Wonder', lit up screens world over. So, without further ado, dive right in and get your fill of pop culture news.

Photo credits: Artists' Social Media (unless specified)

Dive In...

By: Ahalya Narayanan

Taylor Swift might've dropped her eighth studio album, 'Folklore' back in July, but a string of victories continue to follow hot on its tail. And this time around, Taylor's adding a rather large feather to her cap. 

For starters, 'Folklore' resumed its reign atop the Billboard 200 Albums chart for an eighth nonconsecutive week. And simultaneously, it also became the first album to sell a million copies in the U.S. in 2020.  

Taylor Swift Reaches New Heights

Now, this seems to be a bit of a tradition for Taylor considering that even her previous album,  "Lover," became the only album to sell a million copies in the U.S. in 2019. Considering that both albums were released in the latter half of 2019-20, and still managed to rake in a million sold copies in a matter of months is no simple feat. In fact all of the star's previous efforts hold the title of 'Million Sellers,' with her 2008 release "Fearless" holding the most sales figures: 7.21 million. 

Speaking of record-breaking albums, in a recent interview with Rolling Stone, Taylor Swift also recalled her experience crafting the 2012 album, "Red". Speaking of the emotional intensity fueling this record, Taylor confessed,  “I look back on this as my true breakup album. Every other album has flickers of different things. But this was an album that I wrote specifically about pure, absolute, to the core, heartbreak.”  

Circling back to "Folklore," the album also broke yet another mind-boggling record not too long ago.  Taylor surpassed Whitney Houston for the most cumulative weeks at No. 1 by a woman on the Billboard 200 chart. At the time, 'Folklore' had notched seven non-consecutive weeks at the summit. This invariably allowed the star to bask under the spotlight for a 47th week on the chart. 

Now armed with a number of sparkling accolades, Taylor's ready to take on the world. 

By: Nina Karun

Taylor Swift has witnessed a whirlwind of success surrounding her July release, "Folklore". The album arrived right out of the blue but that hasn't stopped it from flying off the shelves. "Folklore" has managed to rake in some mind-boggling figures, whilst also dominating charts world over. And now, Taylor's adding yet another feather to her cap. 

"Folklore" has returned to the No. 1 spot on the Billboard 200 chart, collecting a seventh nonconsecutive week at the summit. By achieving this feat, Swift has surpassed the prolific Whitney Houston’s longstanding record, among women, for the most cumulative weeks at No. 1, across all of her chart-topping albums. Swift has scored a whopping 47 weeks at No. 1 while Houston made it to 46. 

Houston has nabbed four No. 1 albums. Her self-titled debut spent a good 14 weeks at No. 1 in 1986. Following this, "Whitney" enjoyed 11 weeks at No. 1 in 1987.  "The Bodyguard" soundtrack basked under the spotlight for 20 weeks between 1992-93 and "I Look to You" just notched one week at that sweet, coveted spot in 2009. 

A little behind Swift and Houston is Adele with the third-most weeks at No. 1 among women. So far, she's enjoyed her time on that special spot for a good  34 weeks. And if you were curious, the band that's notched the most number of weeks at No. 1 are The Beatles. No surprises there, and yet their time spent under the spotlight still remains mind-boggling and enviable. The band has 132 weeks under their belt, this spans across their record 19 chart-topping albums.

Further, "Folklore" continues to have the most weeks at No. 1 for any album since Drake's "Views" dominated the charts for 13 nonconsecutive weeks in 2016. "Folklore" also notches the most weeks at No. 1 among all non-R&B/hip-hop titles, and albums by women, since Adele’s "25" landed 10 nonconsecutive weeks at No. 1. 

And so, as "Folklore" continues to reign supreme, there's no saying what new feat Taylor will achieve in the near future. 

By: Nina Karun

Taylor Swift just treated fans to a bonus track off her latest album, "Folklore". Titled, 'The Lakes', this tune is a whispering of many stories and yearnings. 

Tied together with a ghostly acoustic guitar riff and Swift's husky melodies, 'The Lakes' is a moody treat for all. Perhaps what stands out the most about the track is its bridge. The young star's lulling runs settle over a melancholic violin piece. This soulful tune was written and produced by Swift and Jack Antonoff, the latter in fact, had a large part to play in all the tracks sitting on the star's album. 

'The Lakes' Draws A Melancholic Picture

Now, coming to the songwriting, it certainly is the defining factor of 'The Lakes'. Much like the troubled poets of the Romantic era, Swift's lyrics speak of a muse, a longing for love and constant scrutiny under the public eye. Her lines also show us a build up of grief, as Taylor hopes to find a safe haven in England's Windermere peaks. A space where she can bid goodbye to all troubles she faced in the industry and yearn for simpler matters, like love and relationships. Perhaps a glance at the lyrics will allow for a better understanding:

Take me to the Lakes where all the poets went to die
I don't belong and, my beloved, neither do you
Those Windermere peaks look like a perfect place to cry
I'm setting off, but not without my muse

Bridge
I want auroras and sad prose
I want to watch wisteria grow right over my bare feet
'Cause I haven't moved in years

'The Lakes' will find a warm spot on the eight different deluxe versions of the album - which is sure to unearth more gems like this one. In the meantime, Swift continues to bask at the No. 1 spot on the Billboard 200 with "Folklore". And gauging by its monumental victory, perhaps the charts will soon open their doors for 'The Lakes' as well. 

By: Nina Karun

Taylor Swift's "Folklore" has brought home yet another phenomenal feat.  The young star has just scored her 39th total week at No. 1 on the Billboard Artist 100 chart and her latest release has clearly had a strong hand to play in this win.

And in the meantime, 10 songs from  "Folklore" continue to chart on the Billboard Hot 100. Now, "Folklore" made its landing on 24th July and has skyrocketed through the charts ever since. Taking into consideration that Taylor didn't carry out any promotional activity for the album, makes its chart wins even more impressive. Additionally, to see the star step away from her usual pop bangers and delve more into the country-folk genre not only highlights her versatility - but also shows us that there's no telling what will click with fans and the charts. Either way, we couldn't be prouder.

And so, to understand the enormity of "Folklore's" wins, we're going to run you through them. So, take a seat, this class is in session.

Photo Credit: Taylor Swift Official Instagram

By: Nina Karun

Taylor Swift has been basking under the spotlight since her release of ' and she has no intentions of leaving her spot. Here's why: 'folklore' just made its explosive landing on Billboard's 200 Albums Chart and also managed to break some pretty stellar records. 

For starters, 'folklore' raked in a whopping 846,000 equivalent album units in the U.S. in the week ending July 30th. Now, this album has also managed to notch Swift her seventh No. 1 album on the Billboard 200 chart, tying her with Janet Jackson for the third-most leaders among women in the history of the chart. A few steps ahead are Barbra Streisand and Madonna with 11 and 9 No. 1s, respectively. 

Taylor Swift Leads the Charge

Swift has also earned the most No. 1 debuts among women.  All seven of her albums have landed on that special, coveted spot, which is no ordinary feat. Following closely behind are these big names:  Beyoncé, Lady Gaga, Madonna and Britney Spears - all tied with the second-most debuts at No. 1 among women, with six each. 

'folklore' also notched 2020’s biggest week for an album, and biggest for any album since Taylor's 2019 release, 'Lover'. With 846,000 equivalent album units, Swift has raised the bar even higher after beating out Juice WRLD's  'Legends Never Die' which scored an impressive 497,000 units in the tracking week ending July 16th. 

Interestingly, the star's previous release 'Lover' stands just a few spots ahead, with 867,000 units earned in the week ending August 29th, 2019.

As you can see, fans are simply delighted, to say the least. After all, Taylor's wins are truly laudable considering that there was no promotion on her end, leading up to the surprise release. 

By: Nina Karun

Back in action this week, your faithful host, Aatira Kakroo is here to give you the download on everything that happened in music this past week. On this episode of ‘The Week in Music’, she’s serving up news on Doja Cat's tryst with Coronavirus, Taylor Swift's brand new album and more.

The week saw a surprise release from Taylor Swift that left fans spiralling. And, in some unfortunate news, it was revealed that Doja Cat tested positive for COVID-19. But, to save the day with some positive news, Demi Lovato announced her engagement to beau Max Ehrich.

This week in music was an absolute roller coaster ride. So, play and dive right in.

Well, as the kids say, Taylor Swift has outsold the industry. Her 8th studio album, "folklore", has officially scored a Guinness World record. And so, the acoustic-folk album proves that Taylor doesn't need pop music to continue her supreme reign of the music world. 

"folklore" Rakes in Big Numbers

As reported by the Guinness World Records, Taylor Swift officially holds the record for the "most day-one streams of an album on Spotify (female)". Her album, "folklore", raked in a whopping 80.6 million streams in 24 hours. Further, it has been confirmed that the album scored a streaming record on Apple Music, too. The singer's 8th release clocked in 35.47 million streams in the first 24 hours of release. 

The impressive record-breaking doesn't stop there. On-demand audio streams for "folklore" surpassed 72 million. With this, Swift breaks a record previously held by Ariana Grande for her album, "thank u, next", which recorded 55.9 million streams.

In addition, Swift surpasses Grande to become the female artist with the most 24 hour streams for an album in Spotify history. Ariana previously held the top spot when her 2019 release, "thank u, next", scored 70.2 million streams in 24 hours on the streaming service. 

"folklore" also officially earns the biggest streaming debut of 2020.

Swift's a Picture of Versatility

Further, proving Taylor Swift's versatility, "folklore" has managed to surpass the 24-hour streaming numbers of her previous release, "Lover", by a large margin. In its first day, "Lover" raked in 55 million streams - not a small number by any stretch of the imagination. But still, 20 odd million short of "folklore". 

Swift's "folklore", which was created entirely during quarantine, sees the singer taking a sharp turn away from her past few pop releases. Returning to her roots as a songwriter, diving headfirst into the acoustic-folk music of her heroes, Taylor offers some of her career bests. 

For a full review of "folklore", click here. 

By: Ahalya Narayanan

So, here's the deal - this week in music pulled the rug out from under our feet. Taylor Swift surprised fans with a massive reveal, Juice WRLD set a massive record, and Dua Lipa shattered the glass ceiling.

The music world served up the perfect mixture of new releases, records, music videos and drama. And, you can trust that we're keeping you caught up. So, dive right in.

Photo Credit: All images taken from respective artists' social media.

By: Ahalya Narayanan

Taylor Swift dropped an entire album out of the blue today and fans have been going crazy about it. This marks the 'Bad Blood' singer's eight studio album, "folklore" which features 16 songs with only one feature from the singer, Bon Iver. There is no doubt that the old Taylor is back on these tracks, the tone of the album is a lot like 'can we do this?', totally different from her previous work's attitude.

The queen of lyrics has to be Taylor Swift and on "folklore", we see Jack Antonoff, Aaron Dessner and Bon Iver contribute to the songwriting. Without a doubt, the tracks hint at a confident self, losing someone, experiencing romance or just being a human. The lyrics from the tracks can totally land on your Instagram as your captions.

(Photos by Taylor Swift's Official Instagram)

By: Aatira Kakroo

Late last evening, Taylor Swift surprised fans when she revealed that her 8th studio album, 'folklore', would be released at midnight. Today, as fans take their time with the 16-track project, that surprise turns into a deep dive into the dreamy inner world of Taylor Swift. 

Taylor's New Release

2020 is the year of surprises, and isolation has

/?igshid=pnswo02qbfrm">proved valuable to Ms. Swift. And, the American singer-songwriter who has, in recent years, achieved absolute pop star status, has taken a step back with 'folklore'. Maneuvering in sharp turns away from 'Taylor Swift, The Pop Star" and claiming the role of 'Taylor Swift, The Singer-Songwriter", the singer explores dreams, memories and personal histories in what are her most poignant moments as a writer. 

'folklore' is the singer's first release as a 30 year old. It is also her first release untouched by month-long marketing plans, label driven promotion and charting strategies. For the first time in years listeners are undistracted by the "she came to slay" and "Taylor really did that" teasers; for the first time in years, fans get to rejoice in the glory of Taylor's journey - a world defined by the music its creator makes. 

'folklore' makes its way to our playlists accompanied by one music video, directed by the singer herself, and 16 lyric videos for the complete album. Swift has also announced the release of 8 CD editions, and 8 Vinyl editions to celebrate her 8th release. 

The Journey of 'folklore'

The full-length studio album begins with the track, 'the 1'. Boasting mellow acoustic riffs, and light pop beats, it is a comfortable invitation for what's to come. The tracks that follow, 'cardigan', 'the last greatest american dynasty' and 'exile' are odes to love lost and love present. They are dreamy celebrations of romance, soaked in the acoustic-country arrangements reminiscent of the original Taylor sound. 

Establishing her new sound, Taylor Swift dares you to enter the world of heartbreak drenched in nostalgia and unapologetic confession. Exploring the reality of loss and separation, Taylor tracks records like 'exile', 'mirrorball', 'this is me trying' and 'illicit affairs'. With the push and pulls of minor notes and folk riffs, the middle of the album is uncomfortable to digest. 

In 'mirrorball', sings: "I'm a mirrorball/ I'll show you every version of yourself tonight," and with the acceptance of raw emotion, Swift does just that. She shows you the not-so-romantic versions of pain we all experience, the not-so-whimsical moments of loneliness we all dread. And in proof of her grasp over human emotion, she uses the music to make it okay. 

No Taylor Swift record is complete without revelations of the singer's darkest moments. And the tail end of the album delivers a punch on that front. Songs like 'mad woman', 'hoax' and 'peace' show Taylor standing strong in her resolve to detail her experiences with crystal clear articulation.

In 'peace' she croons: "Our coming-of-age has come and gone/ Suddenly this summer, it's clear/ I never had the courage of my convictions/ As long as danger is near." But, as 'folklore' would have it, Swift is more courageous than ever.

The Old Taylor Comes to the Phone

Defying the rules of what it means to be a pop star in 2020, Taylor Swift takes the narrative in her own hands with consistent authenticity, unlike ever before. 'folklore' marks her second owned album (in light of the Scooter Braun fiasco) and is her first project to be classified under the "alternative" genre. But, technicalities aside, it is also her first step into a new world of storytelling. 

And so, 'folklore' reignites her passion for songwriting. It focuses on her persona as an artist, and not a pop star under the commercial spotlight. Turns out, the "Old Taylor" was never dead; she was just taking her time to heal and this is her reclamation. 

By: Ahalya Narayanan