Listen: Fearless

Country singer Taylor Swift seems to have come a long way since her debut in 2006. On her latest album "Fearless," the 18-year-old has improved both lyrically and vocally, proving to be one of the best newer artists in the business.

Swift's recent break up with fellow teen star, Joe Jonas of the boy band The Jonas Brothers, had a definite impact on the new CD. In fact, the track "Always and Forever" was written about the heartbreaker. According to a radio interview, Swift said the song was added to the album last minute because she "needed to tell the story."

Other true standout songs include "Breathe" featuring Colbie Caillat and lead single "Love Story." The latter is an example of the fairy tale theme that seems present throughout the 13-track album. The official video for "Love Story" is even modeled after the classic Romeo and Juliet story.

In the same vein, the lyrically and vocally beautiful "White Horse" is probably the best track on the album. On it Swift sings, "I'm not a princess, this ain't a fairy tale. I'm not the one you sweep of her feet, lead her up the stairwell."

Perhaps most impressive is the singer's songwriting skills. All of the songs featured on "Fearless" were either written or co-written by Swift. Her abilities seem to be reminiscent of Avril Lavinge's debut album.

"Fearless" has a more pop-country sound then her first album. In a time where auto tune is popular, it is refreshing to hear artists such as Swift, who have a natural gift for singing rather than relying on the magic of a recording studio.

All in all, the teen shows that she is one of the best in the country industry. Swift has shown much growth on "Fearless" and has the potential to go even further.

Grade: A-