It would seem that Taylor Swift has released a new album, "Speak Now," however to know that it is a new work and not an extension of her earlier album, “Fearless” (released in 2008), you will have to revert to the album cover. Though still young, there really should have been some growth from her last release to this one. "Speak Now" has the feel of something meticulously designed to play to her target audience in the truest name of capitalism, when it would have been better to take away the safety net, use any talent and emotion the singer possesses and simply "sing now." In a recent "Regis and Kelly" interview, it sounded more as if it had been a chore to write these songs and that she is glad the album is finished so that her mind can be free and empty. In reality her album is empty and free of any real content or, most importantly, development as an artist.

It should not be a lot to ask of this chart topper, who already has had enormous accolades bestowed upon her with top vocal awards, top album awards, and top video awards from every corner of the industry, to give her throngs of fans something a little more substantial than regurgitated bubble gum. Thirteen year old girls possess a lot of buying power and, unfortunately, Taylor and any puppet masters know what the minions will devour and choose money over substance.

From the New album "Speak Now," there has been much speculation by the media that her song Dear John could be a reference to her ex beau John Mayer and, Swift has said the song is like writing that last email to an ex and the song is her way of pressing the send button. Seemingly, the most powerful line from Dear John would be "don't you think I was too young to be messed with." While she may believe this might cut him down, it is more akin to ripping off of a wet bandage. The song's lyrics can be read in any pre-teenaged girl's note book.

With the release of "Speak Now" and the unveiling of Swift's wax figure at Madame Tussauds in New York on October 27, 2010, it is relatively safe to say that you will receive more bang for your buck choosing the wax museum since most are aware they are viewing sculptures posing as artists instead of the other way around.