Establishing the mood with an orchestral energy, astral nuances and a textured, trip-hop-adjacent beat, Stomp Box Choir opens Slow Burning Memory with dimensionality and intricacy. The opus expands with a cosmic high synth melody before we experience atmospheric vocals with poetic prowess and metaphorical depth.
There is no doubt that the track holds a cinematic allure, perfect for a sync placement that reflects the themes of the lyrics, perhaps something like People We Meet on Vacation, My Oxford Year, or The Time That Remains. We appreciate the dynamism that the track exudes, with cerebral risers, an 80s synth performance, bass guitar riffs, and the sheer ethereal nature of the vocals. Fans of Portishead and Massive Attack would also be able to connect with Slow Burning Memory.
Whilst the songwriting is unique and poetic, there is also deep rooted relatability in the lyricism. In essence, Slow Burning Memory explores lingering emotions and reflections that unfold over time. It captures notions of tension, nostalgia and suspense. Overall it is quite hypnotic.
Stomp Box Choir is driven by producer Howsie and songwriter Joe Stratton. The pair have been collaborating for many years. Vocals on Slow Burning Memory are provided by Burcu Bahar Aydın. Howsie and Joe say, “Burcu’s vocal tone, shaped by her Turkish heritage, brings a unique emotional quality that sets the music apart.”
The initial ideas for the track date back to 2021. Inception was sparked by a drum loop and bass line sent by Howsie’s brother. Joe and Howsie worked remotely over several years, developing chords, beats and arrangements before meeting Burcu. Production combined home studio recording in Finsbury Park with professional vocal sessions in Notting Hill.
Artists like Thom Yorke, Hot Chip, Bicep, and Maribou State influenced the track’s hypnotic and dark electronic qualities, and the band tells us how they were motivated by originality and the challenge of creating music that feels both timeless and contemporary.
Needless to say, we are in awe, and have added Slow Burning Memory to our New Music Spotlight playlist, and our TIMELESS and TRIPPY playlists, whilst we continue to stream Stomp Box Choir‘s debut single, Magnifier.