sounding out scotland – coda

10 01 2018


 

 

 

Clachan church

is situated in an amazing setting, along a stunning coastline, splendid views on applecross that are both twee and very wild. The church is slightly tucked away and usually quiet. it feels welcoming and cold at the same time. there is something about the very plain design and open empty space that is very attractive in its simplicity. similarly, the sound is ample and yet restrained. there is a comfortable resonance with enough sustain and yet not too much tail which allows for a different type of playing. the surfaces are mainly wood which absorbs a lot of vibrations and makes the sound warm in spite of the plain hard surfaces of the space.

by the time i get to this place, my saxophone has accompanied me on the road and, once again, is in need of TLC. and yet, in spite of this, the place is always stirring and the focus it inspires allows me to overcome the technical difficulties. so, like last time i was here, even if the sax sounds a little raw, and the overtones are a little thin… i always like the outcome produced by such a gentle and stimulating environment. and after a deep and relaxing meditation, the second wave of recording is even more inspired and energetic:

.
.
.

converging inversions
alto saxophone, 30 august 2017
clachan church, applecross, scotland

.
.
.

a group of young deer
2.1 shakuhachi, 30 august 2017
clachan church, applecross, scotland

.
.
.

renewed horizon
alto saxophone, 30 august 2017
clachan church, applecross, scotland

.
.
.

infinite space
alto saxophone, 30 august 2017
clachan church, applecross, scotland

.
.
.

ragged coastline
alto saxophone, 30 august 2017
clachan church, applecross, scotland

.
.
.

Cathedral Cave

it is with great pleasure that i complete this series and my journey by a short stop in the lake district. it does feel like returning home, but there is another treat in line, and this is the absolutely staggering presence of cathedral cave. it’s pretty dark by the time i arrive, and it is definitely empty and quiet, although strange and distant noises inhabit the valley.

from the very first sound, the rich ambiance and impressive character of the reverb envelops me, and carry me in suspension. deep absorption.

expanding.

space.

.
.
.

prajna
alto saxophone, 02 september 2017
cathedral cave

.
.
.

this, is
alto saxophone, 02 september 2017
cathedral cave

.
.
.

the maze
alto saxophone, 02 september 2017
cathedral cave

.
.
.