Laufey - Bewitched ALBUM REVIEW

Summary

In this review, Anthony Fantano critiques the Icelandic artist Levy's album *Bewitched*, which blends pop and jazz elements. While Fantano acknowledges Levy's elegance and nuanced style, he feels the album lacks the necessary vocal range, presence, and dynamic instrumental chemistry to leave a lasting impression. Despite her ability to stand out in today's music scene, he believes the album doesn't offer a fresh twist on jazz or pop, failing to live up to the genre's greats. Ultimately, Fantano feels the record is a decent introduction to jazz for younger listeners but falls short of musical excellence.

Takeaways

• 😀 Levy is an Icelandic singer, songwriter, and pianist with a growing following, particularly among younger audiences, thanks to endorsements from Billie Eilish and TikTok.
• 🎶 'Bewitched' is Levy's second album, which has caused a stir in the music world, blending vocal jazz with pop elements, but not without controversy.
• 👎 The reviewer expresses disappointment with the album, finding it lacks the 'wow factor' and fails to live up to the standards of vocal jazz.
• 🎤 Levy's vocals, though elegant and sweet, lack range, volume, and presence, making them less compelling over the 48-minute runtime.
• 🎻 The instrumental backing is often criticized as unseasoned and uninspiring, with a lack of band chemistry and dynamic playing.
• 🔥 The reviewer compares the performances to first-year jazz students, claiming that the album feels lifeless and uncreative.
• 🎹 Some tracks feel more suited to rock or pop genres rather than jazz, indicating a disconnect between the album's musical direction and its genre roots.
• 🎷 While 'Bewitched' brings vocal jazz to a younger audience, the reviewer feels the album doesn't offer a new or fresh take on the genre.
• 🌍 The album draws influence from classic vocal jazz artists like Chet Baker and Ella Fitzgerald but fails to measure up to their iconic standards.
• 🎬 The reviewer suggests the album may serve as a gateway for young listeners to discover jazz, which could be a positive outcome in the current music landscape.
• 💭 The reviewer hopes that Levy's future works will offer more musically and improve upon the shortcomings of 'Bewitched,' especially in terms of performances and overall aesthetics.

Q & A

What is the main criticism Anthony Fantano has about Levy's album 'Bewitched'?

Fantano criticizes Levy's album for lacking vocal range, volume, and presence, which he believes diminishes the album's impact. He feels the vocals are too restrained and do not hold attention over the full 48-minute runtime.

How does Fantano describe Levy's musical style in comparison to other pop artists?

Fantano acknowledges that Levy's music stands out in a bold and elegant way compared to most pop music, which is often shallow and generic. He sees her as a breath of fresh air but doesn't believe her work offers anything groundbreaking or new.

What genre does Fantano associate Levy's album 'Bewitched' with?

Fantano associates the album with vocal jazz, but he believes it lacks the depth and complexity of classic jazz vocal performances. He also draws comparisons to retro pop music that has a jazzy backbone.

What specific issue does Fantano have with the instrumentation in the album?

Fantano criticizes the instrumental backing for being unseasoned and lacking in detail, pizzazz, and chemistry. He feels the performances sound flat and uninspired, particularly in tracks with more intricate arrangements.

How does Fantano describe Levy's vocals?

Fantano describes Levy's vocals as palatable and occasionally sweet or expressive, but ultimately lacking the 'wow factor.' He feels her vocals do not have enough range or presence to keep the listener engaged throughout the album.

What does Fantano mean by the album 'folding like an origami project'?

When Fantano says the album 'folds like an origami project,' he is suggesting that while the album may initially appear refined or carefully constructed, it ultimately falls short when compared to the standards of the genres it attempts to represent.

What comparison does Fantano make to other vocalists from the past?

Fantano compares Levy's vocal performance to legendary vocalists like Chet Baker and Ella Fitzgerald. He notes that vocalists on classic records from the '60s and '70s were often some of the best in the industry, which he feels Levy's performance does not measure up to.

Does Fantano believe Levy's album has any potential?

Fantano acknowledges that Levy's album has the potential to introduce young people to jazz, which he sees as a positive thing. However, he hopes that her future work will offer more musically, especially in terms of vocal and instrumental performances.

What does Fantano think of the overall direction of Levy's music?

Fantano feels that Levy's music is too safe and lacks a refreshing twist. He believes the album does not bring anything new to the table or push boundaries in a way that would captivate listeners or stand out in the genre.

How does Fantano rate the album and why?

Fantano gives the album a 'light to decent 5,' suggesting that while he sees some merit in Levy's effort, particularly in terms of introducing jazz to a younger audience, the album ultimately fails to meet his expectations musically.