“Array” by Core Memory is a deeply personal exploration of the past, crafted by brothers McKinley and Harrison Foster and brought to life through the medium of music. Their latest release is a reflection on nostalgia, childhood, and the formative experiences that shape one's identity, blending electronic and acoustic elements to create an immersive soundscape.
Sitting at the intersection of electronic and acoustic music, “Array” offers a unique fusion of soft, sweet string melodies, heartwarming guitar arpeggios, and an array of synths and modulators. The album stands out for its dreamy, ethereal atmosphere, with a positive, uplifting tone that subtly carries an undercurrent of sentimentality—perhaps a quiet sadness born from nostalgia and the passing of time.
The opening track, "Firefly Beat," introduces the album with ambient atmospheres and a delicate guitar arpeggio layered with electronic effects. As the piece evolves, it transitions into a more acoustic realm, eventually closing with a soulful and sentimental violin solo that perfectly encapsulates the album’s introspective mood.
"Sleepy Hollow" stands out as my personal favorite. It is driven by a guitar arpeggio that conceals a hidden melodic line, while the strings weave through, enhancing both the harmony and melody. This piece evokes the soft beauty of classic Cat Stevens, imbued with a subtle sense of melancholy that lurks beneath its gentle exterior.
The track "Annularity" expertly merges electronic and acoustic elements, with a cello taking the spotlight and engaging in a dialogue with synths. The progression moves in the opposite direction of the opener track "Firefly Beat," leaning further into electronic textures as it develops. This fusion of genres creates an effective and atmospheric experience.
“Thereisnowhereyoudontbelong” follows a similar pattern to "Annularity," beginning with a soft guitar arpeggio before transitioning into a stronger, more intense melody carried by electric guitar. In its final moments, the piece returns to the initial arpeggio, invoking a comforting sense of homecoming.
The closing track, "Opaque," brings the album to a peaceful, dreamy conclusion. With its melodic synths and delicate arpeggios, it creates a nostalgic landscape that leaves the listener with a sense of warmth and closure.
Core Memory, a multimedia project by McKinley and Harrison Foster, draws inspiration from electronic artists like Four Tet and Caribou. McKinley, based in NYC, focuses on crafting instrumental music that blends lo-fi, synths, and intricate guitar work, while Harrison, based in LA, brings his expertise in lighting design to enhance their live performances with adaptive visuals.
“Array” is a sonic journey through memories, capturing the delicate balance between electronic innovation and the warmth of acoustic sound. It's an introspective and heartfelt collection that invites listeners to reflect on their own experiences while enjoying a rich, textured soundscape.
Credits:
All music written, produced, and performed by McKinley Foster
Visuals by Harrison Foster
Violin on "Firefly Beat" by Sarah Fazendin
Violin, viola, and cello on "Annularity" by Gioia Gedicks
Mastering by Mike Tierney
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