Memories Of Dystopia, the initial offering from NY/SF-based Nyxyss (nix-iss), is set as a series of aural vignettes. The duo’s noir soundtrack paints sonic postcards that are lush, haunting, and full of dramatic tension. Using layered synthesis and sound design elements mixed with romantic instruments recorded live (violin, viola, cello, piano, French horn), the songs on their debut release set a mood and catch an inner sense of a place. What Nyxyss creates together is a distinctly memorable sound filled with pathos and nostalgia for a world lost, remembered and re-imagined.
Sometimes dark, always beautiful, with “Memories Of Dystopia”, Nyxyss gives us something to think about. An inspired opening statement and fresh voice from this Cinematic IDM crew, whetting the appetite for more to come. Sounds like Arvo Pärt meets The xx.
released January 23, 2013
© Nyxyss, published by Halytha Music (BMI).
Written, arranged and produced by Hannah Thiem and Haj Ji.
All instruments recorded at Beat360 Studios, engineered by
Ollie Hammett except where noted. Cello on track 2 recorded at
Peter Karl Studio, Brooklyn, NY, engineered by Peter Karl. Piano on
track 3 recorded at The Doghouse Studios NYC,
engineered by Nathan Rosenberg.
Mixed by Dave Sharma, Sharmaji Music, Brooklyn, NY.
Mastered by Michael Fossenkemper, TurtleTone Studio, NYC.
Cover image by Sequoia Emmanuelle (
sequoiaemmanuelle.com).
Design by Hannah Thiem.
Sequencing + Drums: Haj Ji
String + Chamber Arrangements: Hannah Thiem
Violin: Hannah Thiem
Cello: Isabel Castellvi, Laura Metcalf
Viola: Nathan Cohen
French Horn: Rachel Drehmann
Grand Piano: Hannah Thiem