‘Rumours’ is a solemn awakening, wrapped in hypnotizing melodies and concious lyrics. Toronto-based alternative rock band Carbon Memory draws attention to the evils of the corporate world on the latest single from their upcoming EP ‘Tourist.’ The band released their debut EP ‘Panoramas’ in 2018 and in 2020 enlisted the help of Graham Walsh (Holy Fu*k, Alvvays, METZ) to best capture and instigate sonic experimentation on the group’s upcoming EP. Constantly evolving, they are an outfit that has shifted towards a dynamic alt-rock sound which features electric guitars within atmospheric synth textures with the piano at the center of the composition. ‘Rumours’ captures that sound, bringing with it an important message that needs to be heard.
The purpose of the song is to address the manner in which a corporate lifestyle permeates into our lives and affects us either directly or indirectly. In their words, “Rumours is about playing the corporate game; the empty smiles, the unspoken rules and favours, turning a blind eye, burning bridges, and the obsessive compulsion to reach the very top and doing everything it takes to preserve that position of power.” It is a necessary reminder that we are all, willingly or unwillingly, becoming disposable components of the corporate machinery, and we do not accept that it keeps us from realizing our true potential until it’s too late. Manufactured ambitions and societal limitations prevent us from truly growing, and Carbon Memory’s sonic experimentation on the track creates a sinister soundscape where it is hard to ignore the reality of this truth. The way that the instruments build up and come together, especially with the drums and bass in the latter half, creates an atmosphere of organized chaos. The vocals guide you through it all and help you make sense of the message. It highlights their potential to create incredibly immersive experiences with meaning driving it all.
‘Rumours’ is an important song, not just because of the subject matter that it deals with but because of its head-on approach in addressing questions and doubts that we all come across related to corporate practices. We are often unwilling to accept the truth that is in front of us because we are unsure of what may happen as a result. Carbon Memory inspires courage to acknowledge that the promised life is not necessarily always what it seems like. Accompanied by a vivid music video, ‘Rumours’ is their way of expressing how they feel about being part of such a world. It urges you to think and open your eyes, and sounds great while doing so.