Oh what a curse it is to be a lover girl…
Jazz pop vocalist and Grammy winner–Laufey–released her third studio album, A Matter of Time, on Aug. 22. Over a month later, it remains the subject of mixed reviews: some dismissing it as less “cohesive” than Bewitched. However, that is exactly what makes it so magical to others In fact, the album comprises 14 songs which explore a multitude of emotions and genres.
With this album, Laufey wanted to branch out her musical range from her previous “jazz-centered roots,” while still remaining true to herself. Senior Shael Ariza says, “[My favorite song off the album is] definitely Too Little, Too Late.” This tune is darker and more somber in comparison to her previous light-hearted releases. Further, Ariza states, “I love how the tempo [of Too Little, Too Late] speeds up through the entire song to really solidify the feeling of being too late.” Laufey’s songwriting and musicianship is something that truly sets her compositions apart from her peers. She explores playing with elements such as, in this case, tempo, or using major or minor chords depending on what the subject is she’s singing about at the moment.
Senior and jazz pianist Stephen Blacklaw noted this: “My favorite is definitely Lover Girl… I just like the instrumentation of it.” Pausing momentarily, he adds, “Something about the melody tickles my brain!” A common thing amongst her fans is enjoying her instrumentation and musicality. Laufey, being a multi-instrumentalist, as well as being classically trained, sets her heads above the rest,as she truly understands music.
Announced alongside her album, Laufey surprised her fans with a North American tour for said album. Her first stop was in Orlando, Florida, on Sept. 15. Her U.S. tour will be ongoing until her last stop on Oct. 27 in Boston, Massachusetts–that is until the singer’ Europe leg of the tour kicks off in February of 2026.
Junior Vivienne Balyeat, a musician herself, will be in attendance at Laufey’s Chicago show–tickets for which are still available–on Oct. 10. Balyeat couldn’t be more elated. “I’m really excited to see her, because she’s the main person I listen to and is an idle/celebrity crush!” The vocalist not only reaches people through her artistry but through character, as well. As she takes her listeners through the journey of her life, she also allows for them to reflect on their own adventures.
Not only a prominent voice in music these days but also an empowering voice for many listeners to feel seen, as well, Laufey is captivating audiences across the world with her new album, A Matter of Time.
