A Symphony of Celestial Beauty, The Carrie Armitage Quartet's Debut Album Takes Flight

Introducing the mesmerizing sounds of The Carrie Armitage Quartet is a rare delight. A sensational act hailing from Toronto, Canada, their debut album is a testament to the rich tapestry of talent woven by musicians deeply rooted in the artistic world. The album, “The Carrie Armitage Quartet,” released on April 19, is a beautifully crafted journey through sound, showcasing these extraordinary artists’ immense skills and creativity. Their presence on our platform is an honor, and their music is a treasure trove of intricate compositions and evocative melodies. Born into a musical family, Carrie Armitage seamlessly channels her rich heritage into this album. As a pianist, keyboardist, and producer, she guides us through an auditory adventure.

The album opens with “Ambient Orbit,” a captivating introduction that sets the tone for the entire experience. Brian May’s guitar work melds seamlessly with Carrie’s keyboards, creating a serene yet compelling ambiance. We are immediately drawn into a world of smooth transitions and delicate nuances, a testament to the seamless production. One thing that captivated me most on this track is the bass, it’s perfectly curated.

Moving on to Bob McAlpine’s guitar shine in “The Dreaming Light,” this piece blends dreamy textures with rhythmic complexity. The interplay between the piano and guitar creates a luminous atmosphere, capturing the essence of a serene dreamscape. It feels like a journey through a dreamscape, with each note carefully placed to evoke a sense of wonder. Though there are no lyrics, there are vocalizations that take the song to a whole new level.

“Planet 9” continues this voyage with a more exploratory feel, where Brian May’s guitars take center stage, supported by the steady rhythms of Gary Craig on drums and Mitch Starkman’s awesome grounding bass. This track feels expansive, almost cosmic as if the music is exploring the universe’s vast reaches. Its jazz influences and spacey synths transport us to a distant, wonderful world.

“The Crystal Forest” brings a touch of mysticism with its intricate layering of sounds. This track is a shimmering masterpiece, featuring May’s guitars alongside Armitage’s keys. The crystalline tones, vocalizations, and intricate melodies create a sense of wonder and magic, as if wandering through a mystical forest bathed in light. The interplay between the instruments is particularly striking, each contributing to a rich, textured whole.

In “Figments,” the quartet delves into more playful territory. The light, airy composition is a refreshing change of pace, showcasing the versatility of the musicians. The whimsical nature of the track is infectious, making it a standout piece on the album. This is a piece that soothes and eases us into a moving state of relaxation.

“The Heartbeat Potential,” featuring McAlpine on guitar, is a rhythmic and dynamic piece that captures the essence of life’s pulse. The interplay between piano, bass, and drums drives the track forward, creating an exhilarating and uplifting experience. As a listener, I was instantly hooked; the track was awesome, and I had an electric listening experience. While listening to it, I could feel the DNA of an act of expertise.

A beautiful and soothing composition, “Nightingale” features May’s gentle guitar melodies soaring over Armitage’s lush piano chords. This piece captures the beauty and tranquility of a nightingale’s song, bringing peace to our hearts. It’s a perfect example of the quartet’s ability to convey deep emotion without words.

“ORBIT L2” offers a more rhythmic and groove-oriented experience. The interplay between Carrie’s keys and Gary Craig’s percussion is particularly engaging, creating a sense of movement and flow that is both hypnotic and exhilarating.

“Star Men” brings us back to Bob McAlpine’s distinctive guitar style, paired with a rich, layered composition that feels grand and intimate. The track builds to a powerful crescendo, leaving a lasting impression on us.

“Nocturne” slows things down with a more introspective and melancholic tone. The gentle interplay between the guitar and keys creates a peaceful yet reflective atmosphere, perfect for a quiet evening’s contemplation.

“Long Shadows” continues this theme with a slightly more fun mood. Bob McAlpine’s guitar lines are beautifully melancholic, weaving a story through music that is both touching and profound.

“As the Crow Flies” picks up the pace again, with Brian May’s energetic guitar leading the charge. The track is vibrant and full of life, capturing the essence of freedom and adventure.

“Flying Colors” is a joyful and uplifting composition. The quartet’s synergy is on full display here, with each musician contributing to a bright and harmonious whole that feels celebratory and triumphant.

“Aria Vespertine” brings a touch of classical influence, with Carrie’s keys taking on a more pronounced role. The piece is elegant and refined, showcasing the quartet’s versatility and skill in blending different genres.

Finally, “Natural World” closes the album on a high note. The track is a beautiful fusion of all the elements that make The Carrie Armitage Quartet so special. Brian May’s guitar, Carrie’s keys, her synth bass, and Gary Craig’s percussion come together in perfect harmony, creating a soundscape that feels both grounded and ethereal.

In conclusion, “The Carrie Armitage Quartet” is an album that transcends genres and showcases the immense talent of its musicians. Each track is a carefully crafted piece of art, inviting us into a world of rich textures and evocative melodies. It’s a testament to the power of instrumental music and a clear indication that The Carrie Armitage Quartet is one of the best acts to come from Canada. Their music is a gift, and this album is a must-listen for anyone seeking a truly immersive and beautiful musical experience. Listen to the album. Discover the magic. Feel the music. Embrace the journey.

Listen to “The Carrie Armitage Quartet” album on Spotify or SoundCloud and let us know your thoughts.