A Measure of Shape and Sounds

A Measure of Shape and Sounds
Studio album by
ReleasedSeptember 20, 2024 (2024-09-20)
Recorded2023–2024
GenreAmbient · Experimental · Instrumental
Length43:24
LabelHopeful Tragedy Records
ProducerAlex Henry Foster · Ben Lemelin
Alex Henry Foster chronology
Kimiyo
(2024)
A Measure of Shape and Sounds
(2024)
A Nightfall Ritual
(2025)

A Measure of Shape and Sounds is the third studio album by Canadian musician Alex Henry Foster. It was released on September 20, 2024, through Hopeful Tragedy Records.[1] It was originally intended as a companion to Foster's previous release, Kimiyo, under the larger umbrella project Voyage à la Mer.[2]

Background

The album was created during Foster's recovery from a double cardiac graft surgery in 2023. Collaborating with longtime partner Ben Lemelin, Foster turned to instrumental soundscapes as a means of expression during a period when singing and writing lyrics were not possible.[3]

Musical style

Critics have described the album as ambient and experimental, relying on loops,[4] reverb, and minimalist arrangements[5] to convey emotion without lyrics.[6]

Track listing

All tracks written by Alex Henry Foster and Ben Lemelin.

A Measure of Shape and Sounds track listing
No.TitleLength
1."Thoughtful Descent"2:47
2."Mechanical Revision"3:43
3."A Mind’s Tapestry"5:08
4."Cinematic Insight"4:57
5."Self-Portrait"2:29
6."Sorrowful Bouquet"6:42
7."Manic View"2:35
8."A Gesture, A Present"7:49
9."Alchemical Connection"2:34
10."Reflective Ascent"4:30

Reception

Three Songs & Out described the album as an introspective and ambient journey, noting its live recording approach and the natural flow of the compositions.[6] During an interview with New Noise Magazine Foster emphasized that point, describing the album as "an introspective record, a sonic landscape inviting us to reflect and muse, but mainly to find inner solace, peace even."[7] Psychedelic Baby Magazine premiered the track "Cinematic Insight" and discussed the album's creation process, noting that the album represents a profound personal journey, like a collage of multiple surrounding senses and vibrations, capturing the essence of inner freedom and honesty.[8] In a different feature for another music video, "Alchemical Connection", Psychedelic Baby Magazine highlighted the track's contemplative nature and its contribution to the album's theme of introspective exploration.[9] Jesus Freak Hideout reviewed the album, describing it as "a piece of abstract art" that delves into themes of personal growth and emotional release.[10]

Billboard Canada reported that Alex Henry Foster's album debuted at No. 41 on the Canadian Albums chart, following a No. 12 debut for his previous album, Kimiyo.[11]

Accolades

On September 17, 2025, A Measure of Shape and Sounds was nominated at the 47ᵉ Gala de l’ADISQ in two categories: Album de l’année – Succès populaire and Album de l’année – Musique instrumentale.[12][13][14]

ADISQ

Year Nominee / work Award Result
2025 A Measure of Shape and Sounds Album of the Year - Popular Success Nominated
2025 A Measure of Shape and Sounds Album of the Year - Instrumental Music Nominated

Personnel

  • Alex Henry Foster – instruments, composition, production
  • Ben Lemelin – co-writer, instrumentation, production

References

  1. ^ "A Measure of Shape and Sounds | Alex Henry Foster & The Long Shadows". 2024-07-08. Retrieved 2025-09-18.
  2. ^ Breznikar, Klemen (2024-03-27). "'A Silent Stream' by Alex Henry Foster Featuring Momoka | New Album, 'Kimoyo'". It's Psychedelic Baby Magazine. Retrieved 2025-12-07.
  3. ^ "Interview: Alex Henry Foster Discusses 'A Measure Of Shape and Sounds'". New Noise Magazine. Retrieved 2025-09-18.
  4. ^ "NFN New Music Review – ALEX HENRY FOSTER : A Measure of Shape and Sounds. (Hopeful Tragedy Records)". Never for Nothing. 2024-12-11. Retrieved 2025-09-18.
  5. ^ "'Cinematic Insight' by Alex Henry Foster | New Album, 'A Measure Of Shape And Sounds'". It's Psychedelic Baby Magazine. 2024-09-20. Retrieved 2025-09-18.
  6. ^ a b "Alex Henry Foster And The Long Shadows - 'A Measure Of Sound And Shapes' Album Review". 3songsandout. 2024-09-24. Retrieved 2025-09-18.
  7. ^ "Alex Henry Foster on his new album 'A Measure of Shape and Sounds'". New Noise Magazine. October 10, 2024. Retrieved September 18, 2025.
  8. ^ "'Cinematic Insight' by Alex Henry Foster". Psychedelic Baby Magazine. September 20, 2024. Retrieved September 18, 2025.
  9. ^ "'Alchemical Connection' by Alex Henry Foster". Psychedelic Baby Magazine. July 9, 2024. Retrieved September 18, 2025.
  10. ^ "Alex Henry Foster, 'A Measure of Shape and Sounds'". Jesus Freak Hideout. November 6, 2024. Retrieved September 18, 2025.
  11. ^ "Alex Henry Foster Debuts 'A Measure of Shape and Sound' at No. 41". Billboard Canada. October 2, 2024. Retrieved September 18, 2025.
  12. ^ "Les nominations du gala de l'ADISQ 2025". Le Canal Auditif. 17 September 2025. Retrieved 18 September 2025.
  13. ^ "Les nominations du Premier gala de l'ADISQ 2025". Le Canal Auditif. 17 September 2025. Retrieved 18 September 2025.
  14. ^ "Galas 2025 – Nominations" (PDF). ADISQ. 17 September 2025. Retrieved 18 September 2025.