In the realm where digital worlds and musical artistry converge, Some Distant Memory‘s “Novel Narrative Instrumental” stands as a testament to the power of sonic storytelling. This 6-minute-35-second track, nestled within the first part of the “Reflections” album released in June 2023, offers listeners a unique auditory experience that transcends traditional genre boundaries.
Some Distant Memory, the brainchild of Jasper Ian Albrecht, is not your typical musical project. Rooted in the rich lore of RuneScape and the fictional world of Gielinor, this solo venture blends real-world creativity with fantasy elements, creating a tapestry of sound that resonates with gamers and music enthusiasts alike
The project’s connection to NORS (New Order of RuneScape), a community clan established in 2011, adds layers of depth to the music. This association infuses “Novel Narrative Instrumental” with an air of adventure and camaraderie, echoing the spirit of online gaming communities. While the track doesn’t explicitly reference RuneScape, its expansive soundscape evokes images of vast digital landscapes and epic quests.
Albrecht’s journey as an artist mirrors the evolving narrative of NORS and Gielinor. The track, with its intricate layers and atmospheric elements, could be seen as a musical representation of the “peace of the Fifth Age of Gielinor” or the mysterious “rise of archaeology and discovery of human artifacts” mentioned in the project’s backstory. This intertwining of real and fictional narratives gives “Novel Narrative Instrumental” a unique context that sets it apart from other instrumental pieces.
The track’s cinematic quality, noted for its robotic influence and haunting components, creates an immersive experience that could easily soundtrack a pivotal moment in a game or film. Its length allows for a gradual build-up and development of themes, mirroring the expansive nature of online game worlds and the epic scale of fantasy narratives.
Interestingly, while Some Distant Memory is primarily Albrecht’s solo project, the lore mentions collaborations with fictional characters like the “Divine Baroness” and “Nora Lumwood.” This blend of real artistry and imagined collaboration adds an intriguing layer to the music, encouraging listeners to engage not just with the sound but with the entire fictional universe behind it.
“Novel Narrative Instrumental” serves as an auditory portal, connecting the tangible world of Fort Lauderdale, Florida – where Some Distant Memory is based – with the imaginary landscapes of Gielinor. This duality is reflective of the modern gaming experience, where players navigate between their physical surroundings and digital realms. Whether experienced as a standalone piece or as part of the larger “Reflections” album, this track is a testament to the power of imagination and the boundless possibilities of musical expression in the digital age.
Some Distant Memory
