Fragmented Memories is a relatively new, yet highly productive Dungeon Synth project in which this album focusses on the concept of ghosts with an interesting twist. Ghosts are, generally speaking, spirits which are unable to depart from the material world because memories, both good and ill, keep them here. Regret, joy, revenge, sadness,… all are valid reasons as to why a ghost would choose to remain.  Among all ghosts ever returning is a short story in which the unnamed protagonist has a calling of aiding these spirits by retrieving their memories so that they might find release, even if they don’t want to remember them. She holds a firm belief that one must face his or her memories to move on, and wants to help the ghosts. These spirits are roaming in a shadowy realm just beyond the living which the protagonist must venture into, and as such, she encounters a silent guide who may or may not be a ghost himself. I have a theory he might be someone who had a similar calling as the protagonist, but has lingered too long into this shadowy realm, rendering him mute and almost as insubstantial as the ghosts. However, her calling turns out to be a never-ending quest, and not everyone wants to face their memories. Indeed, some choose to fade within the limbo until nothing remains. The pull to the world of the living grows stronger as the album draws to a close. Having completed the calling to the best of her abilities and now at risk of losing herself too much, she departs with a heartfelt farewell. I can’t help but think the album is a metaphor for an empathetic person who wants to help others through exposure of memories (both good and bad), but the sensitive nature of the protagonist and needs of the world of the living compel her to return, lest the burdens and darkened thoughts of others pull her under. To this end, the mute guide might serve as a warning to what fate may befall her if she stays too long. It is important to note that this is my interpretation of the story, and should be regarded as such.

We have delved deeply into the story so far, but what of the music? Stylistically, it holds comparisons with Dungeon Synth in the vein of Depressive Silence (the distant percussions and some atmospheric elements), yet Oémes gives it her own unique twist in such a way that I’m not entirely sure if it qualifies as pure Dungeon Synth. There are subtle details everywhere and an assortment of instruments are coming together in serene harmony, which is a testament to her talent for creating compositions both intricate and intriguing. Through echoing Halls contains choir elements you would be forgiven for not noticing, yet the track would not be the same without them. The title track contains deep string arrangements which are as subtle, yet offer the necessary basis for the dark emotional layer of the track. A more prominent element is the electric guitar in both Returning the Past and Some must fade. She treads goth rock territory here and both tracks serve as interesting contrasts amidst the more serene tracks.

In terms of highlights, it is easy to recognize Before the deepening shadows take us as a standout. As ghosts threaten to fade in their own non-existence, Oémes blows a melodica so that she may lure them to her in a way which reminds me of the Pied Piper (important: there is no malicious intent here). She forms a ghostly procession with herself at the front, guiding them to the best of her abilities so that they might stand a chance. Come to think of it, the wind instruments presented in the album all deserve praise. They elevate the album as a whole and are an excellent choice for adding layers of drama, given the doleful atmosphere and subject matter. Another standout instrument is reserved for the last track, in which we hear the mournful tugs of an acoustic guitar combined with cave ambience.

As is often case with Dungeon Synth, this release is definitely a labor of love, yet I can’t help but think there’s a parallel between the artist and the story. This might be a coincidence, and if it is, then Oémes should be equally proud of her accomplishments. “Among all ghosts ever returning” may not be for the more traditionalist Dungeon Synth fan, yet the beauty found within this release is evident, and might appeal to fans who want something more.

Fenix Silvermoon approves, and declares: