Memory Spells & Jordan Whitlock Elevate Dream Pop on “Higher”
- 17 hours ago
- 2 min read
Memory Spells and Jordan Whitlock are back with a first taste of their long-anticipated collaborative album, This Is What It Feels Like, in the form of the dreamy single “Higher.”
The track immediately establishes the duo’s signature synergy, blending ethereal dream pop with hints of chamber-folk intimacy. Whitlock’s crystalline vocals float atop Memory Spells’ lush, cinematic arrangements, creating a sound that feels both personal and expansive.
What sets this collaboration apart is its origin. The album was conceived and created remotely, with Whitlock in San Diego and Matt Bauer of Memory Spells in Los Angeles. The two artists exchanged ideas, demos, and revisions digitally, never meeting in person until more than half of the album was complete. That distance is palpable in the music, giving the tracks a sense of longing and introspection.
“Higher” exemplifies this dynamic. The song’s airy synths, minimalist guitar, and subtle strings create a cinematic atmosphere that perfectly complements the introspective lyrics. Whitlock’s voice conveys both vulnerability and clarity, navigating the space between intimacy and the emotional weight of absence. It’s a delicate balance that feels effortless, though the result is meticulously crafted.
Beyond the single, the album promises a rich exploration of human connection. Songs like “Do You Think of It Sometimes?” and “All I See Is You” explore fragile emotional moments, while tracks like “Bloom” unfold with meditative patience. Together, the album sketches an emotional landscape defined by distance, devotion, and quiet reflection.
This Is What It Feels Like is a debut collaboration that transcends its digital creation. Through “Higher,” Memory Spells and Jordan Whitlock demonstrate the emotional resonance that can emerge from long-distance creative partnerships, crafting music that is cinematic, intimate, and profoundly human.
