"Dark Matter" is the eleventh studio album by American singer-songwriter Randy Newman. Released on August 4, 2017, through Nonesuch Records, it was Newman's first studio album of all-new material since 2008's "Harps and Angels".
For "Dark Matter", Newman adopted a storytelling approach, weaving intricate details, and layering meanings into his songs. The album's content is diverse, taking on serious themes such as the mysteries of life and the universe ("Dark Matter"), society's complex issues ("It's a Jungle Out There (V2)"), and satire on political figures ("Putin").
The album kicks off with "The Great Debate", an eight-minute epic that frames a mock trial between science and faith, underlined by Randy Newman's characteristic wit and sharp satirical sensibilities. The album also includes songs about memorable subjects like blues musician Sonny Boy Williamson, the Kennedy brothers, and a touching tribute to aging parents, "Wandering Boy".
"Dark Matter" was received positively by critics and garnered Newman a Grammy nomination for Best Traditional Pop Vocal Album and won for Best Arrangement, Instrumental and Vocals for the song "Putin". The album exemplifies Newman's renowned skills as a songwriter and his ability to intertwine social commentary, humour, and insightful observations into his songs.
