Review
Laufey's second studio album, "Bewitched", is a captivating blend of jazz pop that has garnered widespread acclaim. With a focus on love in all its forms, this album is woven with emotional depth, making for a cohesive and impactful listening experience. The vibrant orchestration and Laufey's crystalline vocals make the album a standout, with timeless pieces like "While You Were Sleeping" and "Lovesick" showcasing the perfect blend of traditional jazz and contemporary lyrics. The album is a testament to Laufey's songwriting prowess, as she effortlessly blends different genres and creates timeless music with her collaborator Spencer Stewart, making use of the Philharmonia Orchestra and Dan Wilson's production expertise.
The critical reception has been nothing but glowing, with reviewers praising Laufey's technical skills, charisma, and the impeccable production. Critics have noted her voice and ambitious nature make this album a standout, seamlessly combining jazz, pop, and modern classical elements. With an aggregate score of 83 out of 100 on Metacritic and reviews from esteemed publications like NME, The Line of Best Fit, and Uncut, "Bewitched" has made a significant impression on the music world. Laufey's voice, effortless charm, and album production have left critics with nothing but praise.
"Bewitched" has performed admirably commercially, reaching number one on the Icelandic and Australian Jazz & Blues Charts. Additionally, it charted in other countries like Australia, Canada, New Zealand, Ireland, Scotland, and the United States, where it debuted at number 23 on the Billboard 200. The album boasts a variety of standout tracks, such as "Dreamer", which sets the tone with empowering lyrics; "Second Best", reminiscent of Sinatra's era; and "Misty", a cover of the classic jazz standard. Other highlights include "From the Start", with its playful and tender atmosphere, and "Letter to My 13-Year-Old Self", a heartfelt and introspective piece. This album showcases Laufey's growth as a singer-songwriter, making it a must-listen for fans of jazz and pop music, solidifying its place as one of the best albums of 2023. - Kimberly
