Icelandic-Chinese artist Laufey continues her meteoric rise in the music industry with her highly anticipated new album, A Matter of Time, set for release on August 22nd, 2024. The GRAMMY-winning composer, producer, and multi-instrumentalist has captivated a generation by creating a whimsical auditory landscape she refers to as “Laufey Land,” where jazz and classical music beautifully intertwine with pop sensibilities. Now, with this latest record, she steps out of the fairy-tale realm to embrace a new, unflinching form of honesty that reflects the complexities of modern relationships.
The album’s lead single, “Tough Luck,” serves as the first glimpse into this thematic shift, with Laufey describing it as a “fiery song about love gone wrong.” This track encapsulates her evolution from exploring whimsical narratives of young love to grappling with the more tumultuous aspects of romance. In A Matter of Time, Laufey delves into the emotions of rage, vulnerability, and anxiety, presenting the raw and flawed sides of human connection that often go unexpressed.
A standout track, “Snow White,” exemplifies this deeper exploration, as Laufey confronts the societal pressures and unrealistic beauty standards that can weigh heavily on one’s self-worth. “She’s everything I am, but my wrongs are turned to rights,” she sings with a vocal performance that effortlessly balances strength and fragility, “teetering and trembling with frustration” over the expectations imposed by society.
However, not all tracks in the album dwell on darker themes. “Lover Girl” offers a delightful contrast, celebrating the exuberance of falling head over heels for someone. This track features a vintage sound, lush production, and a unique blend of jazz and pop influences that showcase Laufey’s ability to maintain her signature charm even while addressing heavier content. The whimsical instrumentation invites listeners to revel in the joy of love, reminding us of the sweetness that can accompany vulnerability.
Musically, A Matter of Time serves as both a continuation of Laufey’s established sound and a bold departure from it. While it retains the sweeping orchestral arrangements and bossa nova influences that have solidified her as a rising star, this album embraces a sense of sonic freedom. For instance, on “Snow White,” producer Spencer Stuart deliberately maintains a light touch in the instrumentation, allowing Laufey’s incisive lyrics to take centre stage. This creative decision highlights her poignant storytelling while enabling listeners to focus on her raw emotional expression.
Collaborating with the acclaimed co-producer Aaron Dessner, best known for his work with artists across varied genres, Laufey was able to navigate these heavier themes without feeling constrained by traditional musical structures. Dessner’s influence encourages exploration, pushing Laufey to trust her instincts as she weaves complex narratives into her work.
Ultimately, A Matter of Time marks a brilliant evolution in Laufey’s artistry, proving that her exceptional ability to make music reminiscent of bygone eras feel timeless is only paralleled by her willingness to grow and explore new creative territories. This album signals not only a maturation in her craft but also an invitation for listeners to engage with the intricate dance of memory, love, and identity that characterises the human experience.
