You only get one chance at making a first impression, so they say, which is perhaps why Memory Engine took the time to craft theirs.
By Graeme Smith
The Vancouver, Washington, USA-based duo of Joshua Kramer and Gwendolyn Gudaitis have released their self-titled debut after years of collaboration. Their time together has clearly not only created chemistry but given them the time to refine their sound.
Memory Engine is short but perfectly formed, consisting of three first impressions of a band that I look forward to hearing more from.
The trio of tracks is introduced by Lady Aqiba. An atmospheric intro quickly gives way to a swaggering, hard riff as Memory Engine pair classic rock elements with a country twang. When the vocals come in, they are instantly captivating, as are the track’s storytelling lyrics. They take us to a dingy bar and a jaded conversation that grips us. Things build strongly into a cathartic chorus where it all comes to a head.
Dear Dismay leans more into acoustic folk but doesn’t lose any of the energy created by Lady Aqiba. A driving guitar riff sets the early pace while its lyrics are tinged with a certain melancholy. Gudaitis’s voice is at its most expressive here, especially when joined by the harmonies in the chorus.
Across The Cuff provides a slower final chapter. It plods along gracefully, introducing elements of folk pop to the mix, especially during an anthemic and memorable chorus. The fact that Memory Engine can show three such distinct sides on one short EP is impressive. What’s more impressive is that they manage to keep things cohesive and complementary. Having a slower song at the close gives us some variety just when we need it and proves as a calming climbdown from the first two tracks’ stirring character.
I’m discovering more acts who let their music speak for itself which makes me wonder if we are moving past the cult of personality the world has become in recent decades. Part of me is hopeful, given what it has wrought on us. Bands like Memory Engine are focussed on their craft, and I can only applaud it.
If you want to stay up to date with what they do next, you can do so by following them on Instagram and Bandcamp.
Memory Engine was produced and mixed by Joshua Kramer and mastered by Maor Applebaum. The mandolin on Dear Dismay is by Joe Tiberio.
The EP is out now, and you can give it a listen below.
