Lucy Fitzgerald 
I recently spent some time with Special Computer by Sandōkaï, and it turned out to be a surprisingly engaging listen. The Swiss duo brings together electro rock, psych touches, jazz accents, and a few unexpected twists that keep the album lively without ever drifting into chaos. From the short opener “Glitch S”, the mood is set with a soft electronic shimmer that quietly opens the door to the rest of the record. The title track “Special Computer” steps in with pulsing synth lines, steady momentum, and subtle layers that unfold piece by piece. The group’s mix of electronic flow with warm instrumental choices creates a sound that feels natural and confident. You can hear the care in the details, from the smooth transitions to the extra color added by the strings of Nicolas Jungo and Nicolas Pache. The production by Christoph Noth and mastering by Magnus Lindberg give the record a clear shape while keeping everything grounded.
Several tracks invite you into calmer territory. “8.1.0.0” and “Uyuni” drift at a more leisurely pace, building atmosphere through repetition and gentle movement rather than relying on big moments. “Tonal Recal pt.1” and “Tonal Recal pt.2” offer short experimental pauses that shift the mood without breaking the album’s continuity. As things move toward the final stretch, “Glitter Room” stands out with its glowing mood, followed by “Glitch K”, a brief closer that brings the record full circle. My own impression is that Special Computer works best when you let it unfold without rushing it. I found myself drawn to the quieter passages, where the duo’s touch feels particularly thoughtful.
The album has a steady rhythm that keeps you curious. Each track adds its own shape, and the variety helps the album stay engaging from start to finish. Sandōkaï manages to bring together diverse influences while maintaining a consistent identity, which gives the release plenty of replay value. Music like this rewards a bit of patience, and once you settle into its flow, the charm becomes clear. Make sure to follow Sandōkaï and add Special Computer to your playlist. Give the album a few spins and let the layers reveal themselves at their own pace. Supporting artists like this helps them keep creating, so tap that follow button, share it around, and keep your ears open for every detail waiting in the tracks.
Listening to songs so you don’t have to! Just kidding :D, you totally should. Music blogger by day, nurse by night
