Remember Karen

Their third release in two years, What You Say and What You Mean is the newest project by DIY alt-rockers Remember Karen. The Oakland-based quartet specialize in melodic tracks that mystify with their cryptic, abstract lyrics (“your ghost always sits in a suburban chair / traces of the not-yet in a parking lot”), yet stay far, far away from the cringe-worthy realm of fake depth. The best part is, they don’t take themselves too seriously, either. They aren’t afraid of rhyming “modesto” with “unimpressed-o” in “Afternoon Waking Life” (streaming below)—a move made even more successful by the whirlwind chorus that follows it. Their music nods at the early work of indie rock legends Death Cab, working in a similar stripped-down style to their debut LP Something About Airplanes. However, that is not to say it is derivative. This is not a recreation of something that already exists, but rather, a revival—one that we’re excited to see unfold. Remember Karen will be playing their record release show at 924 Gilman on November 12th at 6 pm. - The Deli Magazine

Remember Karen is an Oakland-based band playing infectious rock songs with a pleasant bedroom-pop aesthetic. With an upcoming album coming out, they recently released a single titled, “Afternoon Waking Life.” The single showcases their melodic hooks that will capture the attention of fans of LVL UP, (Sandy) Alex G, and the like. The album, What You Say and What You Mean, was recorded at the Atomic Garden with renowned producer Jack Shirley, who has previously worked with bands such as Deafheaven. - The Stranger Song

Remember Karen creates a cool, casual introspective world with the warm “Afternoon Waking Life”. Throughout the song Remember Karen chooses an airy approach, with poetic storytelling tying it all together. Vocals possess a kindness to them as they reveal a desire for something more. Over the course of the track Remember Karen’s style feels reminiscent of Real Estate’s laid-back mellow nature. Guitars ring forth with a dreamy quality. Additionally, the attention to the buildup allows for the emotional core to be revealed with great care.

Things begin with dreamy glistening guitars. A gentle groove forms quickly, as the drums and bass work in unison to give the song a muscular quality. Vocals rest at the very heart of the track, as the highly articulate nature of the lyrics offering a vast plethora of description that flows into the piece. Growing ever more intense, the way the song becomes multi-faceted and multi-layered. Small gestures mean quite a bit, from the increased urgency of the guitar all the way to the stronger feeling of the rhythm. How the groove becomes a driving force instead of merely an emotional affect gives the song a soulful quality. By the very end of the piece it all comes together in a glorious rush of color. Upon reaching that crescendo, the song simply dissipates, tapping once more into that quiet reflective spirit.

With “Afternoon Waking Life” Remember Karen delve into a charming world, one full of a tenderness and passion. - Beach Sloth