Olivia Dean Unveils New Album ‘The Art Of Loving’ This September

Olivia Dean, the rising British singer-songwriter, is set to release her sophomore album, The Art Of Loving, this September. After two years of meticulous crafting, Dean’s new collection showcases her growth as an artist and offers a nuanced exploration of love in its various forms.

The 26-year-old alumna of the Brit School recently expressed her excitement over the test pressing of her upcoming album. “I enjoyed making it. Everything on it is honest, true and real. I like it. I love it. What will be will be,” she stated in an interview with CLASH. Reflecting on her creative journey, she shared, “I’m really proud of what we’ve made.”

As she prepares for a series of performances, including a secret show on the Strummerville stage at Glastonbury, Dean is embracing the anticipation surrounding her return to the stage. Last year, her performance at the iconic Pyramid stage was a standout moment, which she described as “the best moment of my life!” This year, her set promises to be a low-key yet impactful experience, aligned with the mature sound of her new era.

Dean’s performances are characterized by a blend of personal storytelling and engaging musicality. She draws inspiration from artists like The Supremes and Stevie Nicks, creating a unique atmosphere where music and emotion converge. “It’s very much about the music and the emotions of the songs,” she explained, highlighting her desire to connect deeply with her audience.

One standout track from her previous work, “Slowly,” has resonated particularly with listeners abroad, despite some cultural nuances that occasionally lead to misunderstandings. “There’s a line that goes, ‘I could have opened up, cried and almost been myself. But I took the piss instead,’” she recalled, laughing at how some American audiences misquoted it as “I took a piss.”

In addition to her musical pursuits, Dean has gained recognition for her heartfelt tribute to her Guyanese heritage with the song “Carmen.” This track has sparked significant conversations about identity and community, illustrating the power of music to forge connections. “It’s the song that’s connected me to people the most,” she shared, highlighting a particularly emotional moment with a young fan who expressed how her music made him feel comfortable in his own skin.

Growing up in Haringey, North London, Dean faced challenges as a mixed-race artist in a predominately white industry. Influenced by icons such as Amy Winehouse and Carole King, she initially found it difficult to see herself represented in the music scene. “There weren’t a lot of people straddling that dual-heritage world in the guitar-led soul scene,” she noted, reflecting on her journey.

Now, in her twenties, Dean embraces her mixed-race identity as a source of strength. “I’ve worked through a lot of that unease. I feel the most beautiful I’ve ever felt in my life,” she asserted, showcasing her confidence and self-acceptance.

The evolution of her sound is evident in her latest album. The Art Of Loving is described as a more polished and introspective collection compared to her debut, Messy, which earned her a nomination for the Mercury Prize. “I feel very different now. That happens with growth,” she said, acknowledging how her experiences have shaped her artistry.

In crafting this new album, Dean created a dedicated space for her creativity, spending two months in a makeshift studio in East London. “I’d never had my own studio to work from. I made music every day and was quite disciplined in my approach,” she explained, emphasizing the importance of continuity with her long-time collaborators, Matt Hales and Zach Nahome.

The lead single, “Nice To Each Other,” showcases her ability to blend classic sounds with contemporary themes, addressing modern dating dynamics. “Just because something isn’t intensely serious doesn’t mean it’s not beautiful or meaningful,” she said, reflecting on the song’s light-hearted yet poignant message.

Throughout The Art Of Loving, Dean navigates complex emotions tied to relationships, exploring themes of self-doubt and romantic disillusionment. “It’s bittersweet but an important part of the story I’m telling,” she noted, illustrating her depth as a songwriter.

The album’s concept was inspired by an exhibition titled All About Love by artist Mickalene Thomas, which redefined notions of beauty and femininity. Dean’s exploration of love extends beyond romance, encompassing friendship and community. “It’s not necessarily about being in this perfect relationship. It’s also about friendship, platonic and communal love,” she explained, emphasizing the inclusive nature of her work.

In her upcoming single, “Lady Lady,” Dean continues to explore themes of self-discovery, melding sounds reminiscent of Sade with her unique vocal delivery. “It’s one of my favourite tracks I’ve ever made,” she said, expressing how it reflects her journey through different life stages.

As Dean looks forward to the release of The Art Of Loving, she invites listeners to immerse themselves in their feelings and reflect on how they treat themselves and others. “I want listeners to luxuriate in their feelings,” she asserted, challenging the often casual approach to romance in contemporary society.

“I’m viewing this work as a document, a time capsule of my relationship with love at 24, 25, and 26. It’s who I am now, and I’m sure it’ll all change next year,” she concluded, encapsulating her journey of growth and self-discovery through music.

With her sophomore album on the horizon, Olivia Dean is poised to make a lasting impact on the music scene, blending heartfelt lyrics with a soulful sound that resonates with audiences across the globe.