Carousel

Released in late 2018, Carousel serves as a bridge in Fog Lake's prolific output, distilling the lo-fi slowcore essence of earlier works like Captain into a more concise, EP-length statement. Recorded primarily by Aaron Powell in a home setting, the album leans heavily into the 'cassette culture' aesthetic, utilizing tape hiss and pitch modulation as primary instruments. Sonically, it sits at the intersection of Duster's minimalist slowcore and the fragile folk of Elliott Smith, though Powell's use of ambient textures and submerged production gives it a distinct 'dream-folk' quality. Critically, it is often cited by fans as one of his most cohesive short-form releases, perfectly capturing the transition from the indie-pop leanings of his early work toward a more atmospheric, experimental approach to songwriting. The track 'Losing Feeling' is a centerpiece of the record, showcasing Powell's ability to blend melodic accessibility with a crushing sense of emotional distance.