Be Perfunctory cover

Be Perfunctory

Faye Wong · 2015

41 min · 10 tracks · trip hop

A haunting blend of ethereal vocals and trip-hop beats that invite introspection and emotional exploration.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    敷衍 Start here — This opening track perfectly sets the tone for the album with its moody atmosphere and contemplative lyrics, encapsulating Wong's signature style.
  • →
    守護天使 — This track features lush production and a delicate vocal performance that highlights Wong's ability to convey vulnerability amidst complex emotions.
  • →
    我信 — With its introspective lyrics and intricate sound layers, this song stands out as a poignant reflection of trust and belief, resonating deeply with listeners.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

64 /100
Treeline
Higher than 79% of albums we've rated

The album blends ethereal vocals with trip-hop beats, creating an introspective sound that stands out in its genre.

What we noticed

  • The first three tracks feature layered, atmospheric production with a consistent use of reverb that creates a dreamlike quality.
  • Several songs incorporate spoken word elements alongside sung verses, adding to the introspective nature of the album.
  • The final track features a gradual fade-out, leaving a lingering sense of ambiguity and reflection.
Composition 25% of the score
7/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
8/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
6/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
8/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
7/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • steady mid-tempo reflective flow
  • dreamy soundscapes for introspection
  • evening calm and contemplation
  • consistent pacing for focus

Maybe skip if you

  • seeking high-energy tracks
  • prefer instant gratification

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Late Career Highlight — Showcases Faye Wong's continued evolution and relevance after a long hiatus.
Themes
modern Chinese introspection· post-hiatus reflection
Career context
Released on November 22, 2015, 'Be Perfunctory' marked Faye Wong's return after a lengthy hiatus since her last studio album in 2010. This album came during a reflective phase in her career, showcasing her evolution as an artist while maintaining her signature sound. Wong's exploration of modern themes through trip-hop reflects both her personal growth and the changing landscape of Chinese pop music.
Stylistic neighbors
Cocteau Twins· Massive Attack· Portishead

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

  • 守護天使

    Wong shifts from a first-person narrative to addressing a guardian figure directly reveals deep emotional reliance.

    This structural choice emphasizes the contrast between personal vulnerability and the desire for protection, creating a powerful connection with the listener.

Tracklist

  • 1 敷衍 Start here 4:19
  • 2 暗湧 4:20
  • 3 心驚膽戰 4:17
  • 4 守護天使 3:41
  • 5 守時 4:14
  • 6 不得了 3:50
  • 7 玩具 2:58
  • 8 我信 4:48
  • 9 自便 4:58
  • 10 約定 4:24

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata