Icelandic-Chinese singer-songwriter Laufey released her third studio album, “A Matter of Time,” on Aug. 22. Known for blending jazz, classical and pop influences.
The record features singles like “Silver Lining,” “Tough Luck,” “Lover Girl” and “Snow White.” These singles explore themes such as heartbreak, beauty standards, internal conflict and emotional vulnerability.
Laufey has described this album as her ‘most confident’ and ‘most me’ and it pushes her beyond her comfort zone while still maintaining the lyrical sincerity her fans expect.
What I noted of the album “A Matter of Time” is that it departs slightly from the delicate, romantic tones of her past work toward a bolder, more emotional terrain.
A song I took note of was “Tough Luck” as it revealed a sharper edge as she confronts heartbreak. As the opposing song on the album “Snow White” tackles the pressures of societal beauty norms. These two songs really battle one another out for which ones are my favorite. But personally I would need to say that “Tough Luck” just takes me to another world.
My favorite lyric off this album would have to be from “Tough Luck”: “Oops she doesn’t even know, you won’t be missed, I’m glad to see you go.”
I like this lyric because it’s nearing the end of the song and it kind of gives a fun vibe. I really enjoyed the way she sang it and the whole song in general.
Still, the plush arrangements, orchestral flourishes and her signature jazz-inflected vocal style anchor the album in what feels unmistakably ‘Laufey.’ As Laufey said herself, A Matter of Time is a diary transformed into music, an invitation to hear not just the polished ending, but the messy truths beneath it.
This album was beautifully made and showed the true strengths of what Laufey can create. I can’t wait to hear more from Laufey, and see what the future holds for her music.
