Dark Matter
Randy Newman · 2017
39 min · 9 tracks · blues
A satirical blend of sharp wit and melancholic melodies that navigates contemporary anxieties with Newman’s signature storytelling.
Top tracks — play these first
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The Great Debate Start here — This opening track features an expansive arrangement and tackles existential themes through a dialogue between contrasting perspectives, setting the tone for the album's introspective nature.
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Putin — In this provocative song, Newman uses sardonic humor to critique political figures, demonstrating his ability to blend satire with poignant social commentary.
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It's a Jungle Out There — This track captures Newman's knack for mixing humor with serious themes, winning him accolades while reflecting on the chaotic state of the world.
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Wandering Boy — A deeply personal song that explores themes of identity and belonging, showcasing Newman’s lyrical depth and emotional resonance.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
Newman's blend of satire and melody creates a distinctive sound, though its thematic focus may limit broader appeal.
What we noticed
- The first track features a lengthy spoken-word section that sets a satirical tone before transitioning into a more melodic structure.
- Several songs incorporate orchestral arrangements, adding depth to the bluesy foundation and enhancing the emotional weight of the lyrics.
- The album's pacing varies significantly, with tracks like 'It's a Jungle Out There' providing a brisk contrast to the slower, more contemplative pieces.
- Composition 25% of the score
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7/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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8/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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6/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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7/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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6/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
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
- satirical storytelling with depth
- steady progression with resolution
- thought-provoking reflections on society
- engaging narratives for attentive listeners
Maybe skip if you
- seeking high-energy party tracks
- prefer standalone catchy singles
Where this album fits
- In the catalog
- Late Career Highlight — Shows continued vitality with incisive commentary and strong melodies in later career.
- Career context
- By the time 'Dark Matter' was released in 2017, Randy Newman was a revered figure with a career spanning over five decades, transitioning from his early work in the 1970s to becoming an Oscar-winning composer. This album marked his first studio release in nearly a decade, following 'Harps and Angels' in 2008, showcasing his continued relevance and ability to comment on modern society.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Harry Nilsson· Leonard Cohen· Tom Waits
Moments worth listening for
Where the writing does something specific.
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Brothers
The narrative shifts from collective experiences of camaraderie to an intimate reflection on personal loss and regret.
This transition underscores the duality of connection and isolation, revealing how shared histories can evoke profound loneliness.
Tracklist
- 1 The Great Debate Start here 8:09
- 2 Brothers 4:54
- 3 Putin 3:45
- 4 Lost Without You 3:54
- 5 Sonny Boy 4:42
- 6 It’s a Jungle Out There 3:19
- 7 She Chose Me 3:12
- 8 On the Beach 4:31
- 9 Wandering Boy 3:01
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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