Olivia Dean, a rising star in the British neo-soul scene, has captured hearts with her unfussy charisma and warmly assured voice. Her second album, The Art of Loving, is a collection of classic-sounding, retro-minded pop songs that resonate with timeless grace. This review delves into the album’s key aspects, from its sonic influences to its lyrical themes, offering a comprehensive look at what makes it a standout release. The album’s charm lies in its ability to blend classic pop sensibilities with modern neo-soul elements, creating a sound that is both familiar and fresh.
Dean draws inspiration from various sources, including bell hooks’ All About Love and Mickalene Thomas’s exhibition of the same name, infusing her music with thoughtful reflections on love and relationships. The album showcases Dean’s growth as an artist, highlighting her songwriting skills and vocal prowess. Join us as we explore the magic of The Art of Loving and uncover the layers of artistry that make it a must-listen.
Classic Influences and Modern Neo-Soul
The Art of Loving is heavily influenced by classic pop and neo-soul sounds, creating a nostalgic yet contemporary vibe. Dean’s musical journey includes studying songwriting at London’s prestigious BRIT School and working as a backing vocalist for a chart-topping dance-pop group. These experiences have shaped her into a versatile artist capable of blending various genres seamlessly.
Dean cites influences such as Amy Winehouse and Sade, and has covered classics by Carole King and Aretha Franklin, showcasing her deep appreciation for musical heritage. This album is a testament to her ability to draw from these influences while maintaining her unique artistic voice. The result is a collection of songs that feel both timeless and fresh, appealing to a wide range of listeners.
“I’ve done all the classic stuff,” Dean sings on “Nice to Each Other,” reflecting her deep engagement with musical traditions.
Lyrical Themes of Love and Relationships
The album’s central theme, as the title suggests, is love. Olivia Dean explores various facets of love, from the joy of new relationships to the complexities of heartbreak. Her lyrics are thoughtful and introspective, offering a genuine and relatable perspective on modern love. Dean’s immersion in bell hooks’ All About Love inspired her to delve deeper into the concept, enriching her songwriting.
The lyrics often capture the nuances of everyday life, making her songs highly relatable. Whether she’s singing about the excitement of a first date or the comfort of a long-term relationship, Dean’s words resonate with authenticity. The album’s prelude includes the line “‘Gotta throw some paint,’ that’s what bell would say,” underscoring the influence of hooks’ philosophy on her artistic approach.
Production and Arrangements
The production of The Art of Loving is meticulously crafted, with attention to detail that enhances each song’s emotional impact. Executive producer Zach Nahome collaborates with Dean to create a sonic landscape that is both lush and intimate. The arrangements feature a blend of live instrumentation and subtle electronic elements, adding depth and texture to the music.
The album incorporates elements such as bongos from a Laurel Canyon open mic, a buttery Brill Building Rhodes organ, and Motown-inspired bah-bah-bahs, creating a rich and vibrant sound. These details, though subtle, play a crucial role in shaping the album’s overall feel. The fastidious arrangements ensure that every note and every beat serves a purpose, contributing to the album’s cohesive and polished sound.
Dean’s Vocal Performance
Olivia Dean’s voice is a standout feature of the album, characterized by its warmth and clarity. Her vocals are both expressive and controlled, conveying a range of emotions with ease. Compared to her contemporaries, Dean’s voice is neither overly operatic nor steely, striking a perfect balance that suits the album’s intimate tone.
Her vocal delivery is reminiscent of classic soul singers, yet with a modern sensibility that makes her sound uniquely her own. On tracks like “So Easy (To Fall in Love),” Dean’s voice shines, capturing the carefree spirit of the song. Her ability to convey sincerity and vulnerability makes her a compelling and engaging vocalist.
“I’m the perfect mix of Saturday night and the rest of your life,” Dean proclaims on “So Easy (To Fall in Love),” showcasing her vocal charm.
Strengths and Weaknesses
While The Art of Loving is a strong album overall, it has its strengths and weaknesses. One of its greatest strengths is its consistency in tone and theme, creating a cohesive listening experience. However, some songs occasionally veer into cliché, and mixed metaphors weigh down certain lyrics. Despite these minor drawbacks, the album’s strengths far outweigh its weaknesses.
Dean’s thoughtful approach to music is evident in her soundstage-inspired music videos, nodding to the artifice inherent in her chosen tradition. Her writing can be incisive, capturing complex emotions in a few lines. However, there are moments where the album feels too retro, lacking the innovation that could elevate it to a higher level.
Final Verdict
The Art of Loving is a genuinely lovely collection of would-be classic pop songs. Olivia Dean’s unfussy charisma and warmly assured voice carry the album, making it a delightful listening experience. While it may not be groundbreaking, its consistent quality and thoughtful themes make it a worthwhile addition to any music lover’s collection. With a rating of 6.9, the album strikes a chord and makes you want to play it time and time again.
While Dean’s meticulous replicas are nearly impeccable, it’s high time she starts throwing some paint around, pushing her boundaries. Despite this, The Art of Loving remains a testament to her talent and potential, solidifying her position as one of the rising stars in the neo-soul scene.
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