Because of the expected, exquisite vocal performance and tight instrumental accompaniment, ‘Big Time’ is deceptively weighty. Olsen’s precise country twang infects her players and glazes the record in nostalgia. Looking back with fidelity appears to be the artist’s aim: it’s a deeply-fought epistemic and emotional position. As such, the tracks take on a tone of yearning that once obscured and has since settled like a dust cloud. Some of the dreamier moments dip into indulgence, but are more often saved by Olsen’s pounding sincerity pulling the song to the surface. In any case, as she explains, “this is how it works for me now”.
23/30
A favourite: ‘Right Now’
‘Big Time’ is out now via Jagjaguwar.