Album Review: Vance Joy - 'In Our Own Sweet Time'
Multi-platinum singer-songwriter Vance Joy has blessed us with his third studio album, In Our Own Sweet Time.
No stranger to success in the industry, Vance Joy’s new record comes as a follow up to his 2018 album, Nation of Two. Joy’s stellar new album is a shimmering collection of 12 songs set across 42 minutes. Australian modern folk native Vance Joy has cemented his name in the hearts of many, with now-classic tracks “Riptide” and “Georgia” sincerely well-loved by the world. His latest presents a peek into his world and his creative abilities, he cites old friends, new memories and finding love as the main themes of this record.
As with most music created in the pandemic, he shares that the project is his most personal to date. Reaching deep and turning his truth into song, In Our Own Sweet Time reaches new heights of honesty and intimacy. Drawing from the ever-familiar folk-pop ballad, this album dabbles in a full-band sound - pressing forward with a bit more urgency than we’ve seen before. Joy’s soul peeks through his vocal delivery and moving lyricism, backed by strong production and spacious instrumentals. Credited collaborators on the record also include hitmakers Joel Little (Lorde, Taylor Swift), Dan Wilson (Adele, Leon Bridges), Take a Day Trip (Miley Cyrus, Lil Nas X).
On the title of his new album, In Our Own Sweet Time, Joy shared, “I’m always drawn to the idea of timelessness or that shared moment that takes you out of the chaos outside. If the world is crazy, you can retreat somewhere. It’s always hard to think of the right title but I think that sums up the album perfectly.” So it stands, reminiscent of dancing in forests or driving down scenic mountain roads - the album is an escape in time and turbulence.
The singles off the record include the effervescent ‘Missing Piece’, a wonderful love letter to one who completes you. From the euphoric rush of ‘Every Side of You’ and the optimistic full-band sound of ‘Clarity’ - Vance Joy reaches new heights of musicalities in this present soundscape. Not forgetting his acoustic folk roots that audiences will glimpse in ‘Catalonia’ and album opener, ‘Don’t Fade’. In support of the album, Vance Joy has unveiled a world tour for 2023 - set to kick off with the North American leg.
The album plays out a world of giddying romance, reminiscence and optimism. In Our Own Sweet Time is a soundscape lovingly crafted; a space of endless escapism and charm. Lifting spirits and hearts alike, Vance Joy’s newest LP is a timeless body of work that provides the perfect sonic getaway.
Words by Rachel Min Leong
