What makes Laughing With by Regina Spektor notable?

The album received critical acclaim, with tracks like The Call gaining significant attention after being featured in the film adaptation of The Chronicles of Narnia. It also reached number 14 on the Billboard 200 chart, further establishing Spektor's presence in contemporary music. Released in 2009, Laughing With is Regina Spektor's fifth studio album and follows her mainstream breakthrough with Begin to Hope in 2006. At this point, she was solidifying her unique style within the indie pop scene, balancing commercial appeal with artistic integrity.

How many songs are on Laughing With?

Laughing With has 4 tracks, running approximately 13 minutes.

Laughing With

Regina Spektor · 2009

13 min · 4 tracks · indie pop

A delicate blend of introspective lyrics and whimsical melodies that intertwine jazz, pop, and folk influences.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Laughing With — The title track encapsulates the album’s theme of finding humor amidst sorrow, showcasing Spektor’s signature storytelling and melodic charm.
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Folding Chair — This track features playful lyrics and an upbeat melody, reflecting a carefree attitude that contrasts with deeper existential musings present throughout the album.
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The Call — Known for its poignant lyrics and haunting piano arrangement, this song stands out as a meditation on beginnings and endings, resonating deeply with listeners.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

58 /100

Treeline

Higher than 49% of albums we've rated

The album showcases strong songwriting and production but lacks full cohesion due to its live track.

What we noticed

The first three tracks feature piano-driven melodies with layered vocals, while the final track is a live performance that shifts the energy significantly.
Each of the first three songs has a distinct tempo and mood, with 'Laughing With' being reflective, 'Folding Chair' more upbeat, and 'The Call' carrying an emotional weight.
The lyrics across the tracks blend personal introspection with whimsical imagery, creating a narrative thread that connects them.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 7/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 5/10

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.

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Critical Peak — Represents a significant artistic development following her breakthrough.
Career context: Released in 2009, Laughing With is Regina Spektor's fifth studio album and follows her mainstream breakthrough with Begin to Hope in 2006. At this point, she was solidifying her unique style within the indie pop scene, balancing commercial appeal with artistic integrity.
Stylistic neighbors: Fiona Apple· Norah Jones· Imogen Heap