Somber, Introspective, A Look Back at Better Times
Forhill is easy to label as another synthwave artist, but the sounds and tones that wash over you in “Arboretum” envision a younger version of yourself--one filled with optimism and a hopeful view of the future. At the same time, the song forces you to confront nostalgic memories of hope and dreams from a time and place that may never have truly existed.
The word arboretum describes a botanical garden used primarily for trees and shrubs. For a gnome like me, there's no better place to reflect than with nature.
Personally, I picture myself in a forest, sitting under a tree on the hood of an abandoned old car. The shadows of the leaves sway slowly over my skin in a light wind as I take it all in.
The dichotomy between this beautiful imagined moment and the awareness that it never happened creates a constant, warring tangle that defines the listening experience.
These layered emotions weigh heavily, yet the song never loses the sense of longing optimism at its core--leaving you yearning for a future that may have already passed without you.
Surprisingly, Forhill captures these emotions while maintaining a light sonic touch, while never becoming overly heavy or overwhelming.
I recommend listening alone, giving yourself space to reflect and see where the song takes you.
Stay strong during these hard times. It always gets better.
~~Music Gnome out 🍄
Listen here: