SINGLE REVIEW: Oliver Nolan – High Standards
Oliver Nolan brings sharp social observation to 'High Standards', weaving a theatrical, tongue-in-cheek exploration of modern romance. The track plays out like a musical theatre production, grand in scope yet deeply personal in its messaging, questioning whether traditional values like bravery and loyalty still hold weight in a world where status reigns supreme.
Built on a foundation of cinematic storytelling, 'High Standards' moves with deliberate theatricality—its melodies rich, its structure grand, and its lyricism cutting. Prince Charming takes centre stage, only to be humiliated by a wealthier rival, a figure who embodies modern relationship expectations. The song unfolds like a scene in motion, contrasting the sincerity of the past with the ruthless pragmatism of the present.
The instrumentation enhances the drama—lush and expressive, carrying the weight of its message with a dynamic flow. There’s an undeniable sense of spectacle here, but beneath the surface lies something deeply relatable. Nolan doesn’t just critique; he holds a mirror up to contemporary love and the ways in which money, status, and perception have reshaped emotional connections.
'High Standards' is theatrical, playful, but ultimately provocative—forcing listeners to reflect on whether love is truly about sincerity or if it’s become another transaction in a world obsessed with appearances. Nolan crafts something ambitious and clever, proving that sometimes, the best way to ask tough questions is through the grandness of storytelling.
