It’s a timely return for Moscow-born Spektor. In 2004, the bonkers, classically trained folkstress debuted on our shores, accompanied by news that she was a pal of fellow New Yorkers The Strokes. Now, with Julian Casablancas and co returning, it’s no surprise to find Spektor following on their coat-tails again. This introductory release features cuts from her three albums thus far (2001’s ‘11:11’, 2002’s ‘Songs’ and 2004’s ‘Soviet Kitsch’) with mixed results.
At her best, Spektor’s inventive, piano-led fare marries the clunky and surreal sounds of New York anti-folk to the expansive beauty of Kate Bush (‘Chemo Limo’), child-like charms of Joanna Newsom and classic tones of Carole King and Billie Holiday. She even spits out a rap on ‘Pavlov’s Daughter’ followed by some swaggering, jazzed-up vocals. And when she’s not buzzing through quirky vaudeville pop, Spektor tugs at heartstrings with her delicate and sweetly proffered melancholy.
It’s not all magic and light, though. Spektor can be an awkward and almost painful listen, with indulgence turning playful songs into meandering whimsy (‘Daniel Cowman’). Still, next to her mates The Strokes, she’s got ideas coming out of her ears.
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1 comment
excuse me??? painful to listen to??? how dare you insult her like that she is insperational she is the person who kept me from commting suciade and ive never evn met her, so excuse me for dis agreeing but, regina is the best thing thats ever happened to me she has change the perspetive on my life and that is not the least bit painful!