Alexei Shishkin’s Good Times stands out as a fresh expression of creative freedom. One that embraces chance and immediacy over careful planning. Recorded in just four days with Bradford Krieger, the album rejects conventional songwriting processes, resulting in an eclectic mix that spans indie, jazz, Americana, and slacker rock with an unmistakable DIY energy.
What makes Good Times unique is its improvisational core. Alexei calls it “a collage of spur-of-the-moment inspiration” and builds tracks around solo bass lines by Dave Kahn by layering them with spontaneous ideas and lyrics. This approach gives the album an unpredictable flow that mirrors a fleeting escape from daily life by offering one a glimpse into the joy of unfiltered creativity.
The album thrives on contrasts. On “Disco Elysium”, Alexei channels the complexity of the game that inspired it by weaving in samples representing Intellect, Psyche, Physique, and Motor Skills. It’s an inventive detail that connects the song to its source on a playful level. Meanwhile, “Tiki Taka (2006)” captures the energy of soccer highlights, with lyrics improvised while watching FC Barcelona’s moments on screen. It wonderfully blends sport and song in an offbeat way that is catchy as it is infectious.
Alexei’s refusal to conform is evident throughout Good Times. Especially in the production’s loose and candid feel. Instead of polish, Good Times offers an honest snapshot of collaboration and experimentation by inviting one into the studio’s intimate chaos. The album’s lyrical disjointedness doesn’t detract but reflects the whirlwind nature of its creation and the transient mindset Alexei has embraced.
Good Times rewards those open to a nontraditional listening experience. It captures a unique creative moment where spontaneity reigns, and the boundaries between genres effortlessly blur. For anyone curious about music as an act of joyful exploration, this album provides an intriguing and wonderful journey.
Watch our interview with Alexei Shishkin
