The infinite expanse of space and its fathomless silence is beamed through to listeners in this incredible sonic soundscape. The journey begins in the depths of silence, but the music, rusting and scratched at every turn by the light interference of static and white noise, has already taken flight. The music rocketed into the atmosphere and beyond a long time ago, travelling satellite-like through endless black, recording the unimaginable spectacle of space and relaying it back via Williamson’s recording.
The Streets Are Quiet, But The Birds Very Loud is next-level in its serenity. Its tranquil sound grows out from the silence, mushrooming like clouds of smoke and ignited fire from the launch-pad. Its gravity-defying ride takes in bright, shining stars, and Earthly problems suddenly seem smaller before slipping away completely. The music delivers a message from the Universe: don’t worry, it says, and it offers a benevolent safety net, cupping the listener in its hands as it travels on, discovering new treasures. The pressures and struggles of trying to adapt to, fit in with, and find a personal identity within the world are brought into perspective and subsequently relieved. This record is the sound of acceptance and peace with the self.
Like a vintage spacecraft, the music is covered in a silver film and supported by grainy imagery, but although the broadcasting harmonies are hazy and vague, being received later on a delayed feed, it’s still possible to make them out, and the drones drift on. The sunlight is also delayed, but it still reaches the Earth in good time. The music seems to suggest that everything will work out in the end, and escaping the struggles of today’s society brings the listener closer to infinite space. There are no shackles up above, and humans are made of stardust, so personal identity is tied to the Universe. The Earth may be searched high and low for answers, but they’re more likely to be found by looking up at the stars.
credits
released November 6, 2020
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Written & Produced by Erik Williamson at In My Room Studio
Additional Piano Recorded at Alchemix Recording Studios
Mastered by Marly Lüske at Alchemix Recording Studios
Digital cover image by Erik Williamson
Design by Daniel Crossley
Thanks: Craig Tattersall / Cotton Goods
supported by 40 fans who also own “The Streets Are Quiet, But The Birds Very Loud”
When seeking truly quiet, peaceful music, most of what I hear I leave, not sensing internal depth below the sound. This is different. In a moment when subtle stimulation (a bit paradoxically) is sought as a means to deeper tranquility, this excels beautifully. For others who might have connected with Stray Ghost or Silver Mount Zion or Taphephobia, yet whose minds can dwell in greater and healthier lucid calm, this is remarkable. L
The 17 mindbending songs on this compilation represent minimalist experimental music at its best, a collage of blips and static. Bandcamp New & Notable Dec 3, 2022
Purportedly the recordings of a disgraced experimental psychologist (you decide), “Jumand” sets spoken word to eerie synths. Bandcamp New & Notable Sep 2, 2023
J.Lynch (aka Thirty Pounds of Bone) plays with organic elements, including prepared piano, against electronics to impressionistic effect. Bandcamp New & Notable Feb 21, 2023
supported by 40 fans who also own “The Streets Are Quiet, But The Birds Very Loud”
With no forward momentum and therefore no expectation of the next note, eventually these pieces etch out a pattern, at a welcomed glacial pace. Piano is welcomed also. Very well thought out. Richard Erickson