Mountain of Memory

Released in April 2020, Mountain of Memory arrived as a much-needed sonic balm during a period of global isolation. Douglas Appling, performing as Emancipator, refined his signature blend of 'violin-hop' on this fourteen-track odyssey, moving further into world-music influences and psychedelic textures than on previous efforts. The album is notable for its increased use of diverse instrumentation, including sitar-like tones, woodwinds, and more prominent acoustic guitar work, which complements his established hip-hop foundation. Critically, it was praised for its high production values and its ability to maintain a cohesive 'mountain' aesthetic across a longer runtime. It stands as a central pillar in the Emancipator catalog, bridging the gap between the raw simplicity of his debut and the more complex, ensemble-driven arrangements of his live performances. The record features several tracks that have become staples of the downtempo genre, cementing Appling's role as a leader in the organic electronic movement.