With the Moon capturing my thoughts this week, I sought a fitting musical recommendation. Though Brian Eno’s “Apollo: Atmospheres and Soundtracks” is remarkable and a must-listen, it felt too obvious. Radiohead’s “A Moon Shaped Pool” also crossed my mind but seemed similarly straightforward. Then I recalled “Room for the Moon” by Kate NV, an album I played endlessly in 2020.

Kate Shilonosova, the Russian artist behind the album, explores a vibrant mix of 11 tracks drawing from 1970s and 1980s Russian and Japanese pop, along with the whimsical nature of children’s films. This results in “Room for the Moon” embracing its most playful instincts, akin to a fairytale brought to life with bass lines reminiscent of Talking Heads, prog-inspired synths, and echoing drum machines.

The opening track, “Not Not Not,” exudes a playful eccentricity, with its chaotic melodies creating a delightful sense of disarray. It moves forward with an uneven charm, much like a car with a flat tire. Following this, the instrumental “Da Na” presents a slightly surreal soundscape. The clarinet weaves in and out of tune like a tipsy wanderer, while tuned percussion flutters, making it hard to discern whether the sound comes from a kenari seed shell shaker or fingers brushing over a comb’s tines—both seem equally plausible.

“Sayonara (Full Moon Version)” delivers a dreamy fantasia, contrasting the theatrical intensity of Oingo Boingo’s new wave style. The relatively conventional track “Plans” embraces an 80s dance pop vibe but still manages to surprise with a saxophone solo that’s both bleating and nearly atonal, tucked away in a minute-long instrumental section.

While the album’s sounds may at times feel strange and unsettling, the songs themselves are lighthearted and enchanting. Even without understanding the predominantly Russian lyrics, the music conveys an undeniable sense of hope. Kate NV’s “Room for the Moon” isn’t a gloomy lunar serenade but rather the delightful dreams of a childlike imagination.