The Formalist, led by Stephen Krieger and Erik Laroi, is pushing the boundaries of ambient and experimental genres with the release of their first single of 2024, “Happenstance.” This captivating track serves as a preview to their highly anticipated album, A Trace Of Yourself, slated for release later this year.
“Happenstance” is a sonic journey that melds cold electro beats with lush synths, skillfully accompanied by Erik Laroi’s ethereal vocals. The track is a testament to The Formalist’s ability to blur the lines between electronic and organic sounds, creating an immersive experience that resonates with both the past and the present.
Exploring the serendipitous nature of the traces we leave behind, “Happenstance” delves into the complexities of nostalgia. Laroi’s poignant lyrics narrate the unexpected and often bittersweet aspects of the imprints we create. The accompanying lyric video, composed of Erik’s family home movies, adds a visual layer, immersing the audience in an esoteric, vintage world that complements the band’s thematic exploration.
Challenging the conventions of modern electropop, “Happenstance” infuses the genre with boomy and engaging energy, juxtaposing a cold electro foundation with warm synths and distorted bass. Laroi’s multilayered vocal delivery, ranging from whispered intimacy to powerful exclamation, adds depth to the narrative, creating a sonic plane that is simultaneously nostalgic and forward-thinking.
Taking inspiration from the turn of the Millennium and contemporary artists like Broken Bells and James Blake, The Formalist invites listeners into their ambient atmosphere—a dynamic, undulating soundscape that defies traditional boundaries. The harmonious clash of Krieger’s experimental sounds and Laroi’s melodic sensibilities promises a captivating and challenging experience for the upcoming album.
As the lead single, “Happenstance” sets the stage for The Formalist’s return, offering an edgy and enticing preview that seamlessly merges the human and digital realms into an unparalleled auditory journey.
