Memory Spells & Jordan Whitlock Build an Ethereal World on “Higher”

Memory Spells and Jordan Whitlock’s “Higher” is a shimmering prelude to their debut collaborative album, This Is What It Feels Like. From the first note, the single immerses listeners in an ethereal landscape of airy synths, minimalist guitars, and haunting strings. Whitlock’s crystalline vocals float effortlessly across the cinematic production, creating a sound that is both intimate and expansive.

The story behind the album is just as compelling as the music. The tracks were written and produced entirely remotely, with Whitlock in San Diego and Memory Spells’ Matt Bauer in Los Angeles. They didn’t meet in person until the majority of the record was complete, a fact that imbues the songs with a sense of distance, longing, and subtle tension. This unique process is palpable in “Higher,” where the emotional nuance of the performance is heightened by the spatial separation.

Musically, “Higher” thrives on restraint. Every element — from vintage drum machines to airy synth swells — is meticulously placed, allowing the vocals and lyrics to breathe. There’s a cinematic elegance here, but it’s never overblown; the song maintains a delicate balance between grandeur and intimacy, evoking spaces that feel both near and far.

The single is also a glimpse into the album’s broader narrative. This Is What It Feels Like examines the fragility and beauty of human relationships, capturing moments of quiet reflection and tidal devotion alike. Songs like “Do You Think of It Sometimes?” and “All I See Is You” showcase the duo’s ability to transform emotional subtlety into lush musical landscapes.

Ultimately, “Higher” establishes Memory Spells and Jordan Whitlock as a pairing whose collaborative potential is extraordinary. It’s a single that lingers long after it ends, offering both sonic beauty and emotional resonance. The forthcoming album promises more of this delicate interplay, making it one of the most anticipated dream-pop collaborations of the year.