Laufey has just released a new song called “Mr. Eclectic.” In fact, she dropped an entire album, but this piece will focus only on that track. If you haven’t heard of Laufey yet, it’s long overdue. She burst onto the scene a few years ago, thanks to her remarkable songwriting and performance skills. Let’s talk about this one.

I remember Laufey sharing that it had always been her dream to play NPR’s Tiny Desk Concert series—a fantastic series, by the way. Thanks to her rapid rise, she eventually got the chance, and she absolutely delivered. Fans witnessed the whole story unfold in real time, and it was nothing short of inspiring. She’s truly the perfect artist for Tiny Desk.

“Mr. Eclectic” is a mellow diss track aimed at—you guessed it—Mr. Eclectic. If you happen to identify with the lyrics, you might feel a little called out. Still, the track carries a relaxed, cheeky energy. Laufey first made her mark with modern bossa nova, and she hasn’t let go of that thread. Compared to her breakout hit “From the Start,” this song has clear similarities: nylon-string bossa nova guitar, a soft drum groove, and her instantly recognizable, dreamy vocals.

What stands out here, though, is the evolution. The melodies and chord progressions are more intricate, showing how Laufey’s artistry has grown. As a longtime bossa nova fan, I find this track refreshingly authentic to the genre while also pushing it forward. After all, bossa nova literally means “new wave,” and artists like Laufey are proving it’s more than background “elevator music.” Sure, it’s perfect for lobbies or quiet cafés, but it also shines at a relaxed party, during a study session, or on a long drive.

Laufey is at the top of my list of artists to see live. Honestly, she barely needs more than her voice and a guitar to captivate an audience. If you enjoy “Mr. Eclectic,” I highly recommend checking out her full album “A Matter of Time,” along with the rest of her discography. Go give it a spin—you won’t regret it.

Author: Peter Källman

Peter Källman is a writer from Sweden who loves playing in bands, writing reviews and going to live shows!