Roman Spektor’s new album ‘Functionality’ is as musically adventurous as anything out there right now, with passionate songs propelled by a constantly changing assortment of electronic and organic instruments. Switching from industrial rock to delicate folk, often in the same song, ‘Functionality’ is made up of personal secrets, colorful dreams, and hopeful stories.

‘Binary’ sets the tone for the album, with its mysterious guitar arpeggios quickly giving way to a dark synth infused atmosphere. Roman’s voice is omnipresent, appearing in layers of harmony and full of passionate intensity. ‘Checkbox’ shows Roman’s gift for making exceptionally complex rhythms accessible, as he utilizes a fuzzy bass and metal inspired riffs to deliver one of the album’s most engaging songs.

Another highlight with ‘Thank You Father.’ The devastating account of family drama plays out over an eerie web of keyboards and trip hop rhythms. Roman continues to deliver surprises throughout, from the spacious ‘Look For…’, featuring a memorable vocal from guest singer Didi S.B., to the title track and ‘Selling Doors,’ which features Gali Spektor on saxophone. Every track rewards infinite re-listens, and each will likely find a place in the hearts of open minded listeners.

With ‘Functionality,’ Roman Spektor has introduced himself as an artist who is unafraid to take big risks. Those risks have paid off here, as he has made an album that is discomfiting and cathartic alike, the perfect soundtrack to our chaotic times.

Cut The Cool Air

Docks

Selling Doors (feat. Gali Spektor)

Passivity

Tiny Virtual Mouths

Functionality (feat. Gali Spektor)

Binary

Look For... (feat. Didi S.B.)

Thank You Father

Checkbox