Memoryhouse
The Years

Release Date: 2010 | Tracklist

Reality bores me. If there was some plausible way for me to be lifted from the crux of life and forever remain in the dream realm then I'd do it without much hesitation. Call it maudlin, but it's not as though I lead a depressing or humdrum existence - rather, my subconscious holds the power to willingly transport me to beautiful, serene vistas; gorgeous plains with ever-changing scenery, as I openly embrace and dive into the unknown. Unfortunately I can’t convey this through words as they’re merely a device - means for trying to portray what cannot be fathomed. While somewhat confusing and exasperating, one thing rings true: I love this incomprehensible perspective. Perhaps this is one of the many reasons why I adore Memoryhouse as much as I do - their surreal dream-pop sound struck a chord with me. It’s something relatable that draws an otherworldly-like perspective from its listener. An easy listening experience if there ever was one.

It’s the brevity of The Years which makes it such an absorbing album -- nothing overstays its welcome. Christ, the EP’s run time is only 12 minutes, yet it manages to sink in deeply and resonate with the use of a drum machine, synthesizers, and Denise’s delicate voice, layered to gorgeous effect. The continuous guitar loop driving “Lately” along its lush path was actually lifted from the evocative drama “Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind”. Simple, yet very effective, which seems to be an accurate summation of their overall approach to producing music. Closer “To The Lighthouse” sounds like it was recorded under water. It’s bubbly, light, and above all, suave. The drum cycles animate it and give it life while a keyboard loop lies thinly veiled in the background. Even the least enjoyable song “The Waves” shines as a result of retaining the overall atmosphere with Evan’s textural production and use of beats. It’s the one track I always find myself predetermined to skip, yet every time I let it pass by as a result of being completely transfixed. These four songs are so melodious that one can’t help but be lulled into a sense of security, free to reminisce in peace.

As this is the only material I have to go off of, it’s difficult to interpret which direction they’ll take from here-on, but this much can be said: Memoryhouse have undeniably crafted something emotionally arresting, which (for me) elicits thoughts of the fleeting moments pervading my mind immediately after awaking from a somber sleep. This is for fans of Beach House, but more importantly, this is for people who enjoy music in general. Lend 12 minutes of your time to this and revel in its beauty and simplicity, because as far as I’m concerned Memoryhouse have crafted the best EP thus far this year.

Islands, cobwebs forming
Coalesce through the vapor
Some strange trembling gas
In sleep, I dream of houses in the sky
And I watch them go by

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3.7 great

Rank: #142 for 2010