The Horizon is not simply a song, but a journey that Larry Karpenko introduces to us in his new track. Having strong social justice and historical roots, this instrumental track prompts the listeners to slower down, look back, and consider the surrounding world. The song is influenced by the speech of President Lyndon B. Johnson in 1964, the Civil Rights Bill, and steered by the calm commercial of a community leader Nesco Lettsome, making the song a non-violent yet strong appeal to action.
The song opens with the sound of a vinyl record warmly crackling, then piano chords and changing electronic rhythms come in. This mix of old and new sounds unites the past and the present. Listening to it, one gets the impression that he/she is standing on the mountain top and gazes into the vast and endless horizon. No dramatic tunes or pyrotechnics are present, instead, the soothing and constant beat is present, encouraging one to think deeply.
The baritone voice of Lettsome gives the song an additional touch. His spoken words build a concept of equality as not a political, but personal thing, something we have to decide on each day. It is a reminder that justice is not handed over, it is built in our day to day endeavours.
Karpenko makes space with the help of sound, space to feel, space to remember, and space to dream about a better future. The music does not force you to listen, it asks you to listen. Listening to the song, you might end up contemplating your life, your decisions, and your values and the way they influence the people that surround you.
The Horizon is calm and trance-like. unless it will make you dance, it may change your world view. Few songs can be simultaneously reassuring and uplifting, which makes this one a musical instance of silent power and mutual hope.
