In 1989 by Fiona’s Spiral

As a new year approaches, some might feel pressured to make big changes in their lives in the spirit of self improvement. Depending on an almost infinite number of factors, this time of year is often used either as a “reset” point to reprioritize, or as a time to internalize some unnecessary shame. Each year similar ideas worm their way into our brains; change and therefore improve, or stay the same and therefore fail. Regardless how you view this time, change is natural and inevitable, and compounding shame on top of it all is a great way to stress yourself out.

Reflecting about things like change, transformation, and death can bring up all sorts of conflicting emotions, namely those of fear and doubt. In 1989 by Fiona’s Spiral speaks to the neverending repeating nature of things, however this EP is refreshing in its loving, hopeful approach to change. Melody, speed, and percussion are layered over each other in hypnotic concentric patterns, fading through textures in a constant state of flux. The patterns are circuitous but aren’t stuck in a loop, rather, we are traversing a set of neverending spirals, each change offering an entirely new experience. As sounds expand and contract, moments of spaciness give way to energy and danceability, while twinkling high frequencies are grounded by lofi beats and subtle bass. Its changes are all beautiful, building on original ideas and playing around with expression as new elements reveal themselves.

As you may consider the year ahead, remember that no matter the changes made, you will still be you by this time next year. You may look different, think about yourself differently, see the world in new ways, but you will be your primary companion through all of it. So as you listen to Fiona’s Spiral and think about your patterns, I encourage you to do so with a sense of curiosity. You may fall in love with what you find :)

- Carrie