
One of the most ear-catching things about When We Were Young is that it sounds simultaneously dark and light, both playful and sad. For every gray-day vibe and nostalgic sentiment there is an bright, girlish vocal or sing-songy chorus to balance it out.
Opener “The Chant” sets the scene, doing just what its title promises as Harris and Scott deliver a sweetly hypnotic refrain over a dramatic beat and melody. “In the Morning” and “Tomorrow” take the light-dark combination even further; the singing and melodies have a simple, childlike innocence and memorable hooks, but all the while there’s something a bit spooky and strange creeping through. “I’m With You" is the most upbeat, optimistic offering on the EP, featuring more straightforward lyrics and a chorus that could have come straight from a '60s girl-group. In contrast, "Paper Ashes" and closing song "Empty Bones" learn toward the sadder, darker side of the Architecture spectrum; the latter is particularly affecting, beginning as a cold slow-burner before building into a lilting, acoustic-led finish that serves as a satisfying finale.
Just as they mix dark and light, the duo manage to come across as both electronic and organic. Keyboards and technology-based sounds play a significant role, but still, it wouldn't be quite right to classify Architecture in just this way. There's something very natural about the way this music is delivered, which adds a great deal to its strength.
When We Were Young is a solid, captivating introduction. Hear for yourself when Architecture holds a record release/listening party for the EP at the Whistler from 5-9 p.m. on Saturday, April 9th.
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