New CD Review of...
Robert Downey, Jr.
The Futurist
By: Nicole Roberge
Robert Downey Jr. is not the first actor to come out with an album, but he is certainly one of the better. For those of you not willing to give Downey’s music a shot, you might want to change your mind. On The Futurist, he presents us with his poignant collection of ten songs—full of candid lyrics, classical piano, and his soaring voice.
Opening with Man Like Me, we see the talent Downey has a songwriter, and the honest yearning in his voice that may surprise people who have never heard him sing before. His lyrics are captivating and sincere, as he sings, “She says, you’re throwing life away/To move with man like me.”
One of the main highlights of the album is the title track, The Futurist—a quiet testimony of revival and peace. It is an illustrious song with a pensive tone, its lyrics convincingly sung by Downey. It’s chorus repeats, “They’ll take the walk/We’ll sage the world/Sounds like October/A futurist nose/ Our furious, curious, fantastic code,” demonstrating Downey’s rejuvenated outlook and reflective writing.
Other highlights include Broken, Details and Hannah. The Futurist ends on a perfect note with a cover of Charlie Chaplin’s Smile. In fact, the only competition Downey may have had for his impressive lead role in the movie Chaplin may have been this song. It is gorgeously sung and the lyrics are perfectly conveyed through Downey’s charming voice. Downey is a perfect match for this song.
The Futurist may not be for everyone, especially those who have little faith in actors-turned-singers, but then again, Robert Downey Jr. isn’t your ordinary actor. He is an artist, and proves that here with his extraordinary talents. He reveals himself in The Futurist, and it is refreshing to hear such music come to life as he shows the world the true prowess he has.
For more information on Downey, visit www.robertdowneymusic.com