Chrystia Cabral, better known by her ethereal moniker, Spellling, continues to stretch the boundaries of genre and sound. The Oakland-based artist has steadily carved out her own corner of experimental pop since her 2019 emergence, becoming a name synonymous with sonic mysticism, layered instrumentation, and imaginative world-building. Known for merging the abstract with the emotional, her work resists easy definition, and that’s exactly the point.
Spellling’s third album, The Turning Wheel, drew widespread acclaim and even received a rare perfect score from influential music reviewer Anthony Fantano, who praised its sonic richness and bold vision. Now, she’s back with Portrait of My Heart, an ambitious new project that further amplifies her avant-garde aesthetic while leaning deeper into theatricality, textured soundscapes, and haunting lyricism.
In a recent conversation with Justin Richmond on this episode of Broken Records, Cabral opens up about the process behind the new record. She explores how her signature blend of pop, rock, and experimental music has evolved, and how every element of her sound, from chord progressions to costume design, is steeped in intention and storytelling.
She also reflects on her journey from the classroom to the stage. Before Spellling became a full-time creative force, Cabral worked as a teacher, a background that shaped her thoughtful and layered approach to songwriting. The shift to touring life demanded a new rhythm, one that required trusting her instincts and embracing the unpredictability of the road.
The conversation also offers a glimpse into her formative years as a musician, when she first began experimenting with synthesizers and recording equipment. That early curiosity laid the foundation for her expansive sonic palette, which now encompasses everything from operatic vocal arrangements to electronic textures and orchestral flourishes.
With Portrait of My Heart, Spellling continues her artistic transformation, offering a collection that is both emotionally resonant and sonically daring. The album serves as a testament to her ability to blend fantasy and reality.
