Memories...Do Not Open cover

Memories...Do Not Open

The Chainsmokers · 2017

43 min · 12 tracks · electronic dance music

An introspective blend of electronic pop and dance, weaving personal narratives through infectious melodies and polished production.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    The One Start here — establishes the sonic palette early
  • →
    Something Just Like This — This collaboration with Coldplay captures the longing for authenticity amidst superficiality, elevated by its anthemic chorus that resonated widely.
  • →
    Paris — With its reflective lyrics and nostalgic soundscape, this track encapsulates themes of love and memory while maintaining an upbeat tempo.
  • →
    Bloodstream — This song dives into themes of connection and emotional vulnerability, driven by a catchy hook that highlights The Chainsmokers' signature style.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

46 /100
Foothills
Higher than 10% of albums we've rated

The album blends catchy pop melodies with electronic production but follows familiar structures and themes.

What we noticed

  • The album features a consistent use of vocal hooks that are layered over electronic beats, creating a danceable yet emotional atmosphere.
  • Each track typically follows a verse-chorus structure, with the choruses often featuring anthemic melodies designed for sing-alongs.
  • Several tracks incorporate build-ups leading to drops, characteristic of EDM, while maintaining a pop sensibility throughout.
  • The last three tracks slow down the tempo and shift towards more introspective themes, providing a contrast to the earlier upbeat songs.
Composition 25% of the score
6/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
7/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
5/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
5/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
6/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • short, catchy listening sessions
  • contemplative late-night vibes
  • emotional reflective moments
  • upbeat yet introspective energy

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Breakthrough — This album established The Chainsmokers' reputation after their initial success.
Themes
nostalgic relationships· Parisian memories
Career context
Released on April 7, 2017, 'Memories...Do Not Open' is The Chainsmokers' debut studio album following their breakout EP, 'Collage.' At this point in their career, they were transitioning from chart-topping singles like 'Closer' to a more cohesive full-length work, solidifying their presence in the mainstream music scene.
Stylistic neighbors
Zedd· Calvin Harris· David Guetta

Tracklist

  • 1 The One Start here 2:57
  • 2 Break Up Every Night 3:27
  • 3 Bloodstream 3:44
  • 4 Don’t Say 3:48
  • 5 Something Just Like This 4:07
  • 6 My Type 3:37
  • 7 It Won’t Kill Ya 3:37
  • 8 Paris 3:41
  • 9 Honest 3:28
  • 10 Wake Up Alone 3:35
  • 11 Young 3:44
  • 12 Last Day Alive 3:34

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata