Cory Cullinan’s 2025 release, 2025 Alive, is a compelling fusion of music and visual art that captures the emotional landscape of our times. This eight-minute piece, created in collaboration with his daughters Riley Max (vocals) and Sidney Cullinan (direction and production), delves into the complexities of modern life, presenting a sonic and visual journey that resonates deeply with contemporary audiences.

Musically, 2025 Alive is an improvisational composition that begins with ambient drones and evolves into a richly textured soundscape. Cullinan layers instruments such as guitar, keytar, saxophone, and percussion in real-time, creating loops that intertwine unpredictably. This method mirrors the chaotic yet interconnected nature of current events, offering listeners an immersive experience that reflects feelings of confusion, hope, anxiety, and resilience. 

The piece features a single lyric: “Test.” This word is deconstructed and fragmented throughout the track, symbolizing the myriad challenges and trials faced in 2025. Cullinan explains that this choice represents the various “tests” society undergoes—be it of ideas, stamina, willpower, intellect, empathy, or patriotism.

Visually, the accompanying short film directed by Sidney Cullinan complements the music’s emotional depth. It juxtaposes scenes of everyday life with rapid-fire news footage, creating a surreal narrative that transitions from overwhelming confusion to cathartic clarity. The film concludes with images of genuine human connection, emphasizing the enduring spirit of humanity amidst societal upheaval.

In essence, 2025 Alive stands as a testament to the power of art to reflect and process the complexities of contemporary life. Through its experimental soundscapes and evocative visuals, it offers a poignant commentary on the trials and triumphs of the human experience in a rapidly changing world.

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