When cultivating this album, AR/CO — who are comprised of musical duo Leo Stannard and Mali-Koa Hood, said in an interview with Prelude Press said, “Origin Stories was our chance to let people head-dive straight into the enigmatic and wonky world of AR/CO. It’s crazy that we had ideas of this planet where everything was set, to call it AR/CO and build a whole project around it. This EP is us swinging those doors wide open and saying come and hang with us in this place where the music is great and we’re all in it for a good time.” AR/CO emerges with a quintessential summer album, showcasing a musical evolution with it’s earliest traces coming from 2021. Origin Stories embraces the energetic spirit of iconic EDM festival rave music from the 2010s — it’s vibrant and infectious while also simultaneously solidifying its place as a must-have soundtrack for the season.
On initial playback, AR/CO’s debut, “Origin Stories,” immerses the listener in the nostalgic essence of desert rave music. From the first track onwards, the duo wastes no time in establishing their unmistakable sound. With echoes of the iconic rave tunes that defined the 2010s, AR/CO skillfully recreates the vibrant and electrifying atmosphere of those memorable dancefloors. Each beat and melody is crafted to evoke a sense of exhilaration and joy, perfectly encapsulating the essence of what made those times so unforgettable. “Night Feels” not only pays homage to its musical influences but also asserts AR/CO’s unique ability to blend nostalgia with a fresh and contemporary edge.
This sentiment resonates strongly on tracks like “Call Me By My Name” and “MOVE,” which shine as some of the album’s most compelling highlights. Yet what truly elevates this album is AR/CO’s remarkable chemistry and distinctive vocal presence, weaving together seamlessly to create an irresistible experience. Their synergy not only amplifies the nostalgic allure of desert rave music, but also showcases their prowess in delivering an immersive journey for listeners.
Another noteworthy aspect that makes this album truly special is its keen awareness of not overstaying its welcome. AR/CO crafts each track with a precise sense of pacing and arrangement, ensuring that every moment contributes to the overall dynamic without unnecessary repetition or filler. With only six tracks, this thoughtful approach allows the album to maintain its freshness and engagement from start to finish, keeping listeners captivated from start to finish.
In conclusion, Origin Stories is a compelling debut from newcomers AR/CO. This debut establishes just what the dynamic duo is all about while being released at exactly the perfect time.
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