“The Art Of Loving,” released Sept. 26 by British singer Olivia Dean, is a new favorite of mine because of the R&B and jazz pop genre with sweetheart, romantic lyrics.
The era started with the release of “Nice To Each Other” in May. The single was followed by the success of “Man I Need,” the second single from the album. Dean closed the summer with the hit “Man I Need,” previewing the release of her album this fall.
Walden Green wrote in Pitchfork that Dean takes inspiration from artists such as Amy Winehouse and Carole King, and you can hear a clear resemblance to their voices and music throughout the album. The track “Baby Steps” is a clear example of her vocal similarities.
“Given 12 hours, a tree might unfurl its leaves towards the glow of her voice,” Green said.
Bryn Evans reviewed the album for Silent Radio.
“A sudden crusade of the charts,” Evans said.
Dean’s rise to the British charts landed her an opportunity to open for Sabrina Carpenter this fall for the ongoing “Short ‘N Sweet” tour.
Call me basic, but my favorite song on the album is the most popular track. “Man I Need” is a song about the freshness of a relationship where the person is lacking fulfillment. Make our dreams come true.
“Already gave you the time and the place / So don’t be shy / Just come be the man I need,” encapsulates that the person has all of the signs and information on what to do right, to win us over.
The song also repeats the phrase “Talk to me.” This motif lyric exaggerates the need for the person we are romantically involved with to just talk to us.
It is exhausting starting conversations and feeling like we are chasing someone we already have. The song says it all; just reciprocate our love. You know how we feel. Shoot your shot, I am telling you that you will not miss! Men these days want princess treatment and are often shy due to fear of rejection. Like the song proclaims: “Just come be the man I need.”
“Nice To Each Other” is my second favorite on the album. Many people choose their favorite artist based on similarities. Dean’s music recites lyrics that feel related to my life experiences. The song is a sweet ballad about just being good to one another: let’s recreate cinematic love. But never add a label because this generation has commitment issues.
The song “So Easy (To Fall In Love),” laced with chemistry and heartfelt love confessions. She knows how great she is and isn’t afraid to love herself, so why not make her your dream girl?
Dean said “I’m the perfect mix of Saturday night and the rest of your life” in the song.
Overall, the album is the perfect mix of dream girl meets heartbreak with passion, all tied together with a jazzy bow. The album is perfect for that tedious walk to class or when you are yearning with unrequited love from your twin XL.
