Is it just me, or is there the smell of revolution in the air? For the second week in a row, a song featuring that word, and using it in its strictly political sense, has appeared in the top ten. Last week it was the surprising (in pop terms) appearance of M.I.A., from whom a political emphasis is expected; this week it's the unsurprising appearance of Taylor Swift, from whom a political emphasis isn't expected at all. Of course, after the Dixie Chicks, and even Toby Keith's announcement that he's a lifelong democrat, a bit of politics (aside from the usual flag-waving) isn't that hard to imagine coming from modern country singers, but Swift has been country's teen sweetheart for the last two years, and her speaking up in this way (even if she's not explicit about exactly who she supports) is something of a surprise. With the speed in which records can now be made and released, this could turn into a very interesting fall. I await an answer record.