The Hardest Part

Released in 2023, The Hardest Part serves as a definitive statement of Olivia Dean's sonic identity leading into her debut full-length era. The EP centers on themes of growth, the pain of outgrowing people, and the bittersweet nature of moving on. Sonically, it is rooted in neo-soul and contemporary R&B, but it distinguishes itself through a distinctly British indie-pop sensibility and jazz-inflected phrasing. The production is characterized by its 'dry' and intimate feel, often sounding as though it were recorded in a small, wood-paneled studio with high-quality analog gear. The inclusion of an acoustic version highlights Dean's strength as a songwriter, proving that the emotional core of the track remains potent even when stripped of its rhythmic backbone. Critics have noted her ability to make personal heartbreak feel universal through her conversational and relatable lyrical style.