“All the Good Times,” the opening track of Angel Olsen’s 2022 LP, Big Time, sets the tone for the album with its gorgeous and wistful country longing.

The song begins with an atmosphere of quiet release, drawing the listener in with Olsen’s tender vocals. However, what makes this song particularly intriguing is its unexpected sonic evolution. Around the middle mark, it takes an unanticipated turn with the introduction of organ and horns, along with a subtly funky bassline. This twist brings a sense of triumph to the track.

“All the Good Times” is a breakup song that Angel Olsen initially envisioned giving to a country singer like Sturgill Simpson. It embodies a theme of closure and self-empowerment, reflecting Olsen’s decision not to make excuses for others, aligning with the broader message of the album. The song marks a turning point in her songwriting, with lines such as “So long, farewell, this is the end” signaling a sense of finality and possibly saying goodbye to a past self marked by heartache and confusion.

Thanks for the free ride
And all of the good times

It’s a bittersweet farewell, tinged with a sense of nostalgia and the acknowledgment that the relationship has run its course, but reflects a sense of gratitude for the experiences shared in the relationship.