What makes Classic Objects by Jenny Hval notable?

Classic Objects received widespread critical acclaim upon its release, with particular praise for its introspective lyricism and experimental production techniques. It charted well in various countries, showcasing Hval's growing influence in the avant-garde scene, with notable features in publications like Pitchfork and The Quietus highlighting its significance. Released on March 11, 2022, Classic Objects is Jenny Hval's follow-up to her critically acclaimed album The Practice of Love from 2019. At this point in her career, Hval was solidifying her reputation as a leading figure in avant-garde music, exploring themes of identity and experience through innovative sounds and lyrical depth. This album represents an evolution in her artistic expression, incorporating personal narratives while maintaining her signature abstract style.

Who is Classic Objects for?

Classic Objects works well if you're into steady mid-tempo reflective moments, haunting explorations of identity and intimate soundscapes for solitude.

How many songs are on Classic Objects?

Classic Objects has 8 tracks, running approximately 42 minutes.

Classic Objects

Jenny Hval · 2022

42 min · 8 tracks · avant-garde music

A complex tapestry of avant-garde pop and experimental soundscapes interwoven with intimate, contemplative lyrics.

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Top tracks — play these first

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American Coffee — This track encapsulates the album's blend of personal reflection and broader societal commentary, presenting a meditation on modern life and disconnection through haunting melodies.
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Cemetery of Splendour — The song stands out for its lush instrumentation and profound exploration of memory and loss, demonstrating Hval's ability to weave emotional depth into her avant-garde framework.
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The Revolution Will Not Be Owned — This track combines sharp political commentary with ethereal soundscapes, reflecting Hval’s engagement with contemporary socio-political issues while challenging ownership narratives within art.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

66 /100

Alpine

Higher than 89% of albums we've rated

The album's intricate soundscapes and lyrical depth create a unique listening experience, though its appeal may be niche.

What we noticed

Several tracks incorporate unconventional instrumentation and sound manipulation, resulting in a textured sonic landscape that challenges traditional pop structures.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 7/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 8/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 6/10

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 moments
haunting explorations of identity
intimate soundscapes for solitude
thoughtful listening during introspection

Maybe skip if you

seeking upbeat party tracks
prefer instant gratification tunes

Where this album fits

Career context: Released on March 11, 2022, Classic Objects is Jenny Hval's follow-up to her critically acclaimed album The Practice of Love from 2019. At this point in her career, Hval was solidifying her reputation as a leading figure in avant-garde music, exploring themes of identity and experience through innovative sounds and lyrical depth. This album represents an evolution in her artistic expression, incorporating personal narratives while maintaining her signature abstract style.
Stylistic neighbors: FKA twigs· Arca· Sharon Van Etten