Chellcy Reitsma’s “Momento Mori” reveals both the imagination and inexorable nature of eschatology. It can be said that throughout the record, she manages to deliver a mix of the softest blues, alt-rock, rockabilly matures, and unmistakably American-influenced sound. With eleven songs, the album is laced with nostalgia, which blends beautifully into a consistently dark film noir aesthetic, and the messages explored include loss, recovery, and even self. While each track is unique in its respect, when put together, the interludes form a melody that remains in the listener’s mind. The first track, called “Dark Times”, is interesting in the sense that the strategy relies on a passionate and deep darkness that suggests a chorus or partial pre-chorus—leading into the next track that would shift such emotions to hope and faith. The song feels heavy and sorrowful but still full of soul, and the heavy hatred in words is captured perfectly by the smoky wording that sets the mood for the song. “The Darkness” performance sets the scene; it feels like a performance with an ethos of raw emotion. It is a strong feeling illuminates humanity in the music, a strong feeling of dissatisfied acceptance that is an inherent part of all growing older and challenges music faces.
On “Fleshbot Prison”, as the track opens with an edgy success to distorted guitar riff, it serves as a call to underline the rebellious side of rock and roll. As with all other songs on this album, it ignites an acceleration that quickly develops into a song scathing restraint veins that engulf the earth, and everywhere that nerve between freedom and control. “Boat to Nod” fully embraces the Interlude as a smooth transition to a section of the album filled with exquisite poetry lyrics. As with a lot of dreamlike songs, it combines melodic lines that feel soothing to listen to—a much-needed break in the movement for fans of the album that incorporates darker tones and messages. “Sad Lullaby” walks up the pace but allows its investment in vulnerability to come out. Its bare-bones arrangement makes it quite intimate as if Chellcy is singing to the listener. “To My Surprise” steps into view, bringing with it an unexpected lightness and an inclination to envisage a potential for renewal. “Deaths At the Door” has an intensity and bleakness to it, a stark reminder of the fragility of life. The material mirrors the muckiness inherent within the condition. The song is quite stunning amongst the heaviest of pieces. “Phoenix Fly” marks a shift, alluding to the impending change or the act that had previously occurred. The song is elevated by Chellcy’s various singing styles, which provide it with some uplifting emphases.
“Violet Flame” comprises of images and ruminative themes. Due to its expansive sound, it is relaxing rather than nostalgic and compels listeners to consider their lives. The album starts with a new feels version of “Boat to Nod” extending the earlier one to an even new one. It is a beautiful closing for an album that desires both standing still and letting go. ‘Momento Mori’ is more than an album; invites you to face the reality of life and cherish the precious moments. Thanks to Chellcy Reitsma’s combining sincere narratives and unprecedented sounds within a single piece, one is confident that this body of work will be remembered long after the last note has played out.
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