Birdhouse Archive #006

Okay, this one is way different from usual, so bear with me and give this description a read for some broader context.

I've wanted to share this one for a while but have been a little shy about it because it's not what I usually release. After listening to it again, I found that it still brings me joy, so I thought, why not give it a shot? This month's archive entry is an instrumental lo-fi soundscape called "Wolvercote."

I created this last year after returning from my tour in the UK and Europe. Now, some of you know already that I am a giant nerd and that the works of J.R.R. Tolkien are somewhat of an obsession of mine. While in England, I made a point to visit his resting place in Oxford at Wolvercote Cemetery. I had always heard that it was a beautiful and calming place to visit, and I found that description to be spot on. I have attached a few images below that my amazing friend Sara took while I was there to give you a sense of the place.

That rainy morning in Wolvercote Cemetery was a special moment for me. I wanted to try and retain every feeling I could from that day. I made sure to record the sounds I heard there—the rain, the birdsong, the sound of the children on the playground next door. I knew I wanted to try and recreate that scene, not only in my head but by somehow incorporating music.

When I got home to my studio, I made this track starting with a guitar part that I had been toying with on tour but had no other plans for. Then I added in the sounds of the cemetery. The result is a melancholic but beautiful soundscape that puts me back in that moment every time I hear it. Mission accomplished.

Just a final thought for when you listen to this one:

Put on some headphones, slow down, and do some "active listening." This song may not have lyrics, but there is plenty to listen to. If you have 5 minutes to sit back with your eyes closed and listen, I think this can be a relaxing experience for you.