Phantogram’s upcoming fifth album, Memory of a Day, set to release on October 18 via Neon Gold Records, marks a creative revival for the duo. According to band members Sarah Barthel and Josh Carter, the process of writing this album felt like a return to their roots, reigniting the magic of their early days. The pair describe the album as “an awakening,” capturing the spontaneity and freedom they experienced when they first began creating music together. This rebirth is reflected not only in the music but also in the vibrant, colorful sounds that mirror their headspace during recording.
Their latest single, “It Wasn’t Meant To Be,” showcases the band’s signature mix of hazy synths, hypnotic guitar lines, and driving drum machines, all layered with their captivating vocals. Along with previous singles like “Come Alive,” “Happy Again,” and “All A Mystery,” the track delves deep into the emotional complexities of relationships, touching on themes of pain, devotion, and inevitable attachment. The song’s origins stem from a blend of sounds from Josh’s 4-track and early beat experimentation, resulting in a raw and reflective sonic journey.
With Memory of a Day, Phantogram seems poised to recapture the energy and spirit that first defined them, while exploring new sonic landscapes that evoke both nostalgia and freshness. Pre-save the album and dive into the new single here: https://neongoldrecords.ffm.to/moad.