Laufey – ‘A Matter Of Time’ Review: Still Spellbinding with a Hint of Shadow

Laufey’s ‘A Matter Of Time’ blends enchanting orchestral jazz-pop with newfound shadows, revealing her evolving, deeper self.

A New Chapter in Laufey’s Musical Journey

“It’s a matter of time until you find out who I truly am.” These words from Laufey perfectly capture the essence of her third album, A Matter Of Time. If you’ve been following this Icelandic-Chinese jazz-pop sensation since her 2022 debut Everything I Know About Love or her Grammy-winning follow-up Bewitched from 2023, you know she’s got a magical touch for crafting orchestral songs that feel like a warm hug for the heart. But with this new album, she’s peeling back layers, inviting us to step behind the shimmering curtain of her fairy-tale world and face a few shadows.

Darker Tones Beneath Gorgeous Melodies

What strikes you immediately about A Matter Of Time is how breathtakingly beautiful it still is. The lush orchestral arrangements and delicate jazz-pop fusion are very much present, but now there’s a subtle darkness weaving through the melodies. Take the bossa nova swing of “Mr. Eclectic,” for example. Featuring the soft backing vocals of Clairo, the track showcases Laufey’s sharp wit as she gently dismantles the pretentious suitors trying to win her over with shallow charm:

“You think you’re so interesting,” she sings with a knowing smirk, “Quoting epics and ancient prose,” putting those poetic posers firmly in their place.

This mix of elegance and sly sarcasm feels fresh and alive, a departure from the purely romantic daydreams of her earlier albums.

When Imperfection Becomes Art

The album’s closing track, “Sabotage,” is where the shadow fully steps into the spotlight. Right from the first notes, you’re greeted by ominous, discordant strings that prick at the ears between the otherwise smooth orchestral swells. The song builds into a chaotic crescendo of dissonance, a jarring but brilliant finale that mirrors the fantasy unraveling around the singer. It’s raw, unsettling, and yet, wholly captivating—an artistic risk that pays off by exposing vulnerability beneath beauty.

More Insight, More Honesty

True to her promise to show more of herself, Laufey dives into her insecurities and societal pressures in this album. On “Snow White,” she voices the harsh expectations placed on women with heartbreaking clarity:

“The people want beauty, skinny always wins / And I don’t have enough of it.”

This candid admission adds a new dimension to her music—one that resonates deeply with anyone who’s felt the weight of external judgment.

A Touch of Icelandic Heartache and Personal Growth

Laufey’s Icelandic roots shine through on “Forget-Me-Not,” a haunting track featuring the Iceland Symphony Orchestra and her first-ever lyrics penned in her native language. The song carries a homesick longing that’s both intimate and universal, a testament to her growth as a songwriter. Elsewhere, “A Cautionary Tale” explores the tricky dance of love and identity, revealing how she sometimes adopts her partner’s personality in an effort to break old habits. And if you’re craving something smoky and jazzy, “Silver Lining” delivers that cool, late-night lounge vibe with a playful, flirtatious energy.

Juggling Success and Self with Grace

“Carousel” sums up the whirlwind beautifully:

“My life is a circus / Hold on for all I bring with me.”

Laufey’s breakthrough with Bewitched may have ushered in more chaos and spotlight, but here she handles it with a poised elegance. A Matter Of Time feels like a glimpse behind the scenes of her life—a delicate balancing act where the circus keeps spinning but the star performer never loses her grace.

Album Details

• Release Date: August 22, 2025
• Record Label: Vingolf Recordings / AWAL

FAQ

• What makes ‘A Matter Of Time’ different from Laufey’s previous albums?
  This album introduces darker themes and more personal insights, contrasting the sparkling romanticism of her earlier work.
• Who features on the album?
  Clairo provides backing vocals on “Mr. Eclectic,” and the Iceland Symphony Orchestra appears on “Forget-Me-Not.”
• Is there a music video available from the album?
  Yes, the official music video for “Snow White” is available on YouTube and captures the album’s intimate, reflective vibe.
• What genres influence Laufey’s music?
  Her music blends jazz, pop, and orchestral elements, often with a vintage touch reminiscent of classic jazz singers.
• Where can I find the album artwork?
  The album’s iconic artwork is available digitally and on physical releases, showcasing a dreamy, timeless aesthetic.

If Laufey’s wistful yet shadowed melodies inspire you, why not bring that magic home? Shop your favorite album cover poster at our store and keep the music alive on your walls: Architeg Prints