There are very few things in the world that can connect us all. Spanning across cultures, languages and decades, love can act as an indestructible link between humankind.
A sentiment asserted in Bell Hooks’s 1999 novel, “All About Love”, British singer-songwriter Olivia Dean reaffirms the importance of love in her sophomore album “The Art of Loving.”
During an interview with the Today Show, Dean attributes this novel to teaching her that love does not have to be some sort of fantasy but “a skill you can get really good at.”
“I want people to listen to it and really think about how they love people and how they love themselves too,” Dean explained.
With 1.6 billion streams across all platforms, the 26 year old from East London is accomplishing her goal of spreading the message of love. The first time a British female has been awarded a number one double since 2021, on Friday, Oct. 3, Dean earned the UK’s Official Number 1 album and Number 1 single “Man I Need”.
Junior Raquel Deleo explains her excitement as Dean’s music begins to rise, “It’s great to see Olivia Dean finally getting wider recognition two years after her debut.”
She explains that Dean’s album “feels enlightening for young women navigating love and heartbreak.”
A smooth mix of contemporary pop and classical jazz in sound, Dean’s album has been heard in popular television series such as “Heartstopper” season three, on social media platforms such as Tik Tok and even through the headphones of Fairfield University students walking along campus.
Deleo attributes Olivia Dean to being one of her new favorite artists. “I first discovered Olivia Dean’s music while watching Heartstopper, her song “Dive” plays beautifully at the end of Season 3.”
“The Art of Loving (Intro)”
The introduction to Olivia Dean’s sophomore album, with faint bird chirping and soft piano melodies backtracking her soulful voice, provides a glimpse into the overall aesthetic of the album. Dean captures the essence of her overall message of love in a way that leaves the listeners delighted to hear more. Almost like an older sister sharing her wisdom to a younger family member, Dean pushes her audience to put themselves out there.
“Nice To Each Other”
Continuing the jazzy tone with a more upbeat backtrack, the guitar accompanies her soulful and honest voice. The song explores the complexities and playfulness of beginning a relationship with someone while also maintaining your independence.
“Lady Lady”
Exciting drums playing into the ‘80s synth vibe of “Lady Lady”, a more intense tempo contrasts Dean’s soulful tone. With addicting harmonies and powerful lyricism, this track emphasizes a love for the universe and accepting change. Reinforcing the power of womanhood, the song reflects a peaceful journey while facing uncertainty.
“Close Up”
Exploring the complexities of disconnects between who another person perceives you as and who you really are in a relationship, “Close Up” stands out with its jazz drumming and strong piano backing track. Upbeat and leaning on horns, this song explores what it really means to be seen closely by your partner.
“So Easy (To Fall In Love)”
Optimistic and jazzy, the guitar in this track captures the free flowing, almost childlike feeling of falling in love with someone. Dean explores what it is like to so easily give up your heart to someone in a new relationship.
“Let Alone The One You Love”
A slow and smooth beat, continuing the addicting jazz-like soul of the album, Dean investigates the feelings that emerge when stepping away from a person who makes you feel insignificant and unimportant.
“Man I Need”
A more upbeat and pop-like track, Dean translates the all consuming emotions of rapidly falling for someone and rushing to make up for lost time into beautiful lyricism.
“Something I Need”
Fast paced and intense, this track questions the breaking point of a relationship that lays somewhere in the inbetween.
“Loud”
A faint eerie twist to the underlying guitar, this James Bond-like track is forefronted by dynamic vocals and violins that build up tension to mirror the overbearing anxiety that comes from the silence of others.
“Baby Steps”
A brilliant combination of lyricism with playful drums and tambourine, this track is all about moving through life one step at a time, emphasizing that “I won’t fall back if/I fall forwards.”
“A Couple Minutes”
Intricate violin harmonies intertwine with slow drums and guitar to create a soft and free falling jazz atmosphere in this track, mirroring the beauty and hardship that comes with ending a relationship on good terms.
“I’ve Seen It”
The final track on the album, “I’ve Seen It” is a standout. Acoustic slow beat guitar meshes with Dean’s warm vocals perfectly. Soft bird chirping calls back to the opening of the album, while once more bringing the listener to a place of safety and peace. Original and deeply impactful lyricism flawlessly asserts that especially during trying times, love needs to be actively looked for instead of hate, because it is almost everywhere we look.
Exploring the complexities of love, relationships and discovering oneself Olivia Dean’s “The Art of Loving” is an instant classic that will continue to top charts across the globe.
