Acoustic folk-pop rising into pure pop warmth unites with melancholic, characterful vocals as James Arellano digs deep into heartache.
Memory feels like a partly familiar, well-written pop song on first listen. There’s a recognisable depth of tone to James’ vocal though, and it soon becomes clear that there’s a fairly unique nature to his writing style, too.
Consider the arrangement or rhythm of the words in the pre-chorus – right before the drop – the placement of the syllables and notes in ‘just realised why’. It intrigues enough to draw you in, and the result is that this bright and satisfying hook works its magic all the more effectively.
Contrasting the broken-hearted nature of the writing with a clear sense of musical optimism, Memory gets you humming the tune and swaying to the groove without feeling too dismayed at the sadness off separation.
It’s a job well done, and James Arellano proves himself to have just enough originality to connect. Hopefully there’s plenty more music to follow.
Check out James Arellano on Facebook or visit his Website.
