The Album: “The Absence of Noise""The Absence of Noise" is my second album as Njordlyd. The title of the album does not refer to the absence of noises in my music, as noises serve as a fundamental element in my compositions. Instead, it reflects how I use music creation as an escape from the "noises" in life – the constant disturbances, endless responsibilities, and countless issues demanding attention. This album is a departure from these everyday distractions, a chance to be alone, unrestricted and free from constraints. When I create music, I experience a sense of freedom and solitude. It is a temporary mindset that provides me with a sense of control, even though I usually have a clear purpose in mind when creating music. Although I drift away from the "noises," I remain in command, orchestrating the musical journey.
The music on this album takes the listener on a voyage through a somewhat darker and more cosmic landscape compared to my last work. It's entirely sample-based, featuring an array of field recordings, metro sounds, barking dogs, distorted noises, instruments, and reimagined musical fragments. My passion for manipulating samples and reshaping audio content has only grown since the completion of my previous album, "Getting Closer," and the EP, "Correlations." If you listen closely, you will uncover subtle, uncharted layers of samples that transform ordinary soundscapes into something entirely new or different. These nuances are nestled within the spaces between the samples, waiting to be discovered. Track description: The track feels a bit like an exploration, like looking for something or getting away from something. A growing feeling of being on the edge and your senses are heightened. Like something is coming to an end. |
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The album tracks
"Influx" (Track one):
The term "influx" signifies a significant arrival or the introduction of a large number of elements, whether it's people or things. In this track, the listeners are introduced to a multitude of diverse elements - an extensive array of sounds, samples, and field recordings that flow throughout the album.
Track description: The track commences with the sensation of a “hot summer afternoon." It's a time when the heat is so intense that any activity feels challenging, yet an undercurrent of tension and restlessness persists in the background. Disruptive, non-soothing sounds interrupts the moment, amplifying the sense of unease and the need to move forward, even against conflicting circumstances. This track captures the essence of confronting challenging situations in the middle of distressing circumstances.
“With time” (Track two): Second single with “Nowhere” as b-side.
“With Time” is the second single from the album “The absence of noise”. Over time, I have come to understand and know myself quite well - how to navigate through my own being, accept both who I am and how I operate. With time, music has transcended being merely a hobby or a great passion; it has evolved into a form of therapy, an escape. When restlessness takes hold or uncertainty clouds my thoughts, I naturally turn to creating music as a source of solace. The process of getting lost within it, disappearing into the music, helps me navigate through the disturbances and turbulence in life. Music offers me a temporary “peace of mind”, a little relief where I find myself carried to another dimension. I retreat to my "special hiding place," my "treehouse."
Track description: The track feels a bit like an exploration, like looking for something or getting away from something. A growing feeling of being on the edge and your senses are heightened. Like something is coming to an end.
“Recollections” (Track three):
This track delves into the concept of accumulating a collection of memories and events over time, all related to specific phases of one's life, particularly connected to music. It's about how music can serve as a faithful companion, something to lean on during different periods and situations, and how music can become a therapeutic force.
While this revelation has been part of my awareness for a considerable time, its profound impact fully dawned on me over the last 3-4 years. It's not limited to creating music but extends to the act of listening. With time I have observed how, in various circumstances or moments, I instinctively connect with specific artists or musical pieces. "While I accept that this is well-known, I personally still find the magic of music's influence undeniable." The profound impact of music is remarkable; without it, life would lack its true essence.
Track description: "Recollections" as a track offers a breath of fresh air or a moment of tranquility. It evokes the sensation of sitting peacefully and alone on a park bench for a brief interlude. Eventually, there comes a point where the need to move forward increases. You start walking slowly and thoughtfully, but with a sense of renewal. The sounds carry a felling of optimism. As the track concludes, do the memories of the past blur into the distance? You have encountered this sensation before, and it was alright.
“Adrift” (Track four): First single
“Adrift” is the first single from the album “The absence of noise”. Despite the title, the album does not reflect the absence of noises in my music; rather, noises serve as a foundational element in my compositions. Instead, it reflects how I use music creation as an escape from the "noises" in life - all the disruptions and excessive amount of tasks, the obligations, commitments, and constant constraints. When I make music, I find solitude away from these distractions, losing myself in the process, floating adrift without ties or constraints." It is a space where I'm not controlled by anyone or anything - a unique and perhaps temporary mindset. Even though I often have a clear purpose when creating music, and I know what I want to achieve, during these moments, I am adrift, detached from the noises, yet still in control. Occasionally, I use it to clear my mind and free up my thoughts, yet subconsciously, I somehow remain in control.
Track description: While the track starts with a relaxed mood and natural atmosphere, evoking the clarity of fresh air, it gradually builds a sense of balance and calm throughout most of its duration. However, as it progresses, an underlying tension emerges, hinting at an approaching change or unsettling occurrence, like a storm quietly taking shape towards the end.
“Going back in time” (Track five):
The theme behind “Going Back in Time” is closely connected to "Recollections," which we explored earlier. However, it is not about recalling memories, but rather the sensation of mentally traveling back to a specific moment in the past. "Going Back in Time" emphasises how music possesses the unique ability to transport you to a particular point in time in your life, a specific event, or a significant period. It could be a happy phase or a challenging one, where music, or a specific piece of music, served as an anchor, providing solace and companionship.
I distinctly remember the sense of loss I felt when I learned about the passing of Keith Flint from The Prodigy. In the aftermath, I naturally drifted towards social media to follow the outpouring of tributes and condolences. What struck me as particularly moving was the sheer number of people who recounted their personal experiences with The Prodigy's music, highlighting how it had been a lifeline during challenging times and chapters in their lives. Each of them, in their own way, was embarking on a journey back in time, revisiting those significant moments that had been shaped and defined by the music. It highlights music’s profound ability to connect with the past and provide strength or renewed energy during difficult times. This, naturally, is my interpretation and I also expect this to vary individually. What works for some, may not have the same effect for others.
Track description: The track itself invites you to imagine the sound of the weather in space through a transcendent musical journey. Mysterious sounds, a fusion of the unknown with familiar echoes of nature and industry, unfold. While navigating through the track, it feels like you're encountering these mysterious sounds, weaving a brief yet immersive stellar expedition where the boundaries between space and Earth harmoniously blend.
"Buried" (Track six):
This track is a continuation of a previous theme (“Voices” from 2021), providing a direct response to my constant influx of ideas - a continuous stream that often leads my mind to wander aimlessly. It captures a state of 'being in,' where thoughts refuse to settle, but instead, freely continue exploring various subjects. 'Buried' conveys the feeling of being submerged in ideas, reflecting the time spent managing creative abundance. It explores how this process rescues me from feeling overwhelmed, representing the dynamic struggle between creative abundance and the therapeutic release through artistic expression. However, “Buried” also delves into how this creative flood, though burdensome, offers an escape from overwhelming feelings and the 'noises of life.' It is a musical exploration of the push and pull of creative abundance and the relief it brings.
Track description: ‘Am I coming down to land?’ poses a question as the track gradually slows down, creating a sense of anticipation and preparing for what comes next. Within this gradual descent, there is a short pause before the forthcoming transition. It mirrors a blend of anticipation and an open-minded acceptance of whatever awaits when you get there, whether it be landing or coming to a stop.
“Night time” (Track seven):
Throughout the album, I have mentioned several times that music is a therapy for me - a way to clear my mind from life's constant challenges and noises. This track perfectly aligns with that concept. Long story short, shortly after changing job, I received a call from my previous manager. Expecting a casual catch-up or news about my former workplace, I was surprised when the news turned out to be something completely different. A former colleague, with whom I had worked for nearly 8 years, had suddenly passed away. It was a profound shock, and an incomprehensible sadness overwhelmed me.
Unable to cope after the call, I instinctively went upstairs and sat at my desk. Opening a new file, I began playing around with some samples. Two hours later, I stopped and went to bed, finding it difficult to sleep. The next day felt strange, my mind drifting during work, leading me to listen to what I had created the day before. Somehow, in a short time, I had created an almost complete track - this one. I liked the atmosphere; it somehow resonated with the situation.
Setting the track aside for a few weeks, I revisited it later. Upon doing so, I found it remarkably powerful and decided to complete it for this album. Over the course of a few days, I finalised it. This track has since become a link to ‘going back in time’, a powerful recollection intertwined with a strong memory.
In addition to this moving narrative, there's also a less somber note. Nighttime, a period that has always been my most creative, serves as a sanctuary where I find a bit of peace of mind in the middle of life's chaos, challenges, and surprises. As night unfolds, it becomes the time when my creativity flows at its best. As the world settles into hushed stillness, my senses heighten, and I become one with the night and my flow of creativity. In this restful, almost composed breathing space, my mind is totally free from undesired distractions and "noises."
Track description: ‘Having arrived’, this track echoes the anticipation of what lies beyond the ‘doors’. A gentle slowing down creates a sense of expectation, mirroring the moment of arriving and being on the brink of a new or next experience. It's like stepping into the unknown after arriving, the feeling of “okay, here we go”, open the ‘doors’.
“One day” (Track eight):
Originally, this track was rather lengthy, but it did not resonate with me as I had hoped. It is almost as if, deep down, I knew that it would never quite hit the mark, and “One day” I would inevitably face the challenging decision of either eliminating it entirely or giving it a complete overhaul. What remains in the current version is just a fraction of the nearly nine-minute original composition.
"One Day" delves into the idea of daring to make that difficult decision. It is about recognising when something is not working, despite the significant time and effort invested. It is the moment when you must summon the courage to cast aside the ‘old’ and embrace the ‘new’ or simply move forward. It is a daunting process, knowing that action is required, even when you may not want to take it. The track captures the essence of confronting that inner conflict, where the desire for progress outweighs the reluctance to let go of the past. It is a symbolic journey through the dynamic landscape of creative decision-making.
Track description: The track channels the sensation of walking through an unfamiliar landscape. It gives off a non-threatening atmosphere, inviting a sense of curiosity and presence, allowing for a mindful experience as one moves through the passages.
“The least” (Track nine):
This track embodies the therapeutic power of music, closely connected with "Night Time," "Buried," and the concept of “Going Back in Time”. Initially just a distraction - a spontaneous evening experiment after a long, exhausting day - this piece quickly evolved into a subtle therapeutic experience. The title, "The Least," pays homage to the track's minimalism, characterised by the fewest sounds and samples, making it the shortest piece on the album.
Originally unplanned for the album, 'The Least' emerged in the final stages, shortly before its completion, coinciding with a period of personal challenges. In its simplicity, "The Least" represents an additional therapeutic dimension of musical expression. It signifies a return to a simpler time, providing relief during a period dealing with a lot of personal issues, much like the music that has consistently accompanied me through the various stages of my life.
Track description: The sounds of this track experience a subtle transformation, evolving into a more urban and unnatural ambiance. A tangible sense of tension builds as the sounds and track develop, evoking the atmosphere of entering a workplace.
“Forward motion” (Track ten):
This final track wraps up the album, bringing a sentimental close to this musical journey. As the last track on the album, it does not represent a definitive end but rather functions as a transitional moment, a stepping stone toward what lies ahead. As I reflect upon these words, I find myself standing at a crossroads, uncertain about the future path of my musical exploration and the forthcoming steps to take. While I may not have a concrete plan for the future, one thing is certain, I am filled with an abundance of ideas and creative ventures, perhaps even an overwhelming surplus. "Forward Motions" captures the essence of transition, where closing a chapter not only signifies the abundance of ideas but also incorporates the lessons learned and experiences gained. Each concluded phase becomes a guide for the opportunities that unfold, making the creative process an ever-evolving and lively journey.
Track description: Returning to slightly more familiar sonic landscapes, the track gives a feeling of a relaxing train commute - similar, both familiar and comforting. The gentle sounds create a soothing atmosphere, similar to a regular journey back home. As we approach the final destination, the feeling is one of calm anticipation, ready to move forward with life as usual.
The term "influx" signifies a significant arrival or the introduction of a large number of elements, whether it's people or things. In this track, the listeners are introduced to a multitude of diverse elements - an extensive array of sounds, samples, and field recordings that flow throughout the album.
Track description: The track commences with the sensation of a “hot summer afternoon." It's a time when the heat is so intense that any activity feels challenging, yet an undercurrent of tension and restlessness persists in the background. Disruptive, non-soothing sounds interrupts the moment, amplifying the sense of unease and the need to move forward, even against conflicting circumstances. This track captures the essence of confronting challenging situations in the middle of distressing circumstances.
“With time” (Track two): Second single with “Nowhere” as b-side.
“With Time” is the second single from the album “The absence of noise”. Over time, I have come to understand and know myself quite well - how to navigate through my own being, accept both who I am and how I operate. With time, music has transcended being merely a hobby or a great passion; it has evolved into a form of therapy, an escape. When restlessness takes hold or uncertainty clouds my thoughts, I naturally turn to creating music as a source of solace. The process of getting lost within it, disappearing into the music, helps me navigate through the disturbances and turbulence in life. Music offers me a temporary “peace of mind”, a little relief where I find myself carried to another dimension. I retreat to my "special hiding place," my "treehouse."
Track description: The track feels a bit like an exploration, like looking for something or getting away from something. A growing feeling of being on the edge and your senses are heightened. Like something is coming to an end.
“Recollections” (Track three):
This track delves into the concept of accumulating a collection of memories and events over time, all related to specific phases of one's life, particularly connected to music. It's about how music can serve as a faithful companion, something to lean on during different periods and situations, and how music can become a therapeutic force.
While this revelation has been part of my awareness for a considerable time, its profound impact fully dawned on me over the last 3-4 years. It's not limited to creating music but extends to the act of listening. With time I have observed how, in various circumstances or moments, I instinctively connect with specific artists or musical pieces. "While I accept that this is well-known, I personally still find the magic of music's influence undeniable." The profound impact of music is remarkable; without it, life would lack its true essence.
Track description: "Recollections" as a track offers a breath of fresh air or a moment of tranquility. It evokes the sensation of sitting peacefully and alone on a park bench for a brief interlude. Eventually, there comes a point where the need to move forward increases. You start walking slowly and thoughtfully, but with a sense of renewal. The sounds carry a felling of optimism. As the track concludes, do the memories of the past blur into the distance? You have encountered this sensation before, and it was alright.
“Adrift” (Track four): First single
“Adrift” is the first single from the album “The absence of noise”. Despite the title, the album does not reflect the absence of noises in my music; rather, noises serve as a foundational element in my compositions. Instead, it reflects how I use music creation as an escape from the "noises" in life - all the disruptions and excessive amount of tasks, the obligations, commitments, and constant constraints. When I make music, I find solitude away from these distractions, losing myself in the process, floating adrift without ties or constraints." It is a space where I'm not controlled by anyone or anything - a unique and perhaps temporary mindset. Even though I often have a clear purpose when creating music, and I know what I want to achieve, during these moments, I am adrift, detached from the noises, yet still in control. Occasionally, I use it to clear my mind and free up my thoughts, yet subconsciously, I somehow remain in control.
Track description: While the track starts with a relaxed mood and natural atmosphere, evoking the clarity of fresh air, it gradually builds a sense of balance and calm throughout most of its duration. However, as it progresses, an underlying tension emerges, hinting at an approaching change or unsettling occurrence, like a storm quietly taking shape towards the end.
“Going back in time” (Track five):
The theme behind “Going Back in Time” is closely connected to "Recollections," which we explored earlier. However, it is not about recalling memories, but rather the sensation of mentally traveling back to a specific moment in the past. "Going Back in Time" emphasises how music possesses the unique ability to transport you to a particular point in time in your life, a specific event, or a significant period. It could be a happy phase or a challenging one, where music, or a specific piece of music, served as an anchor, providing solace and companionship.
I distinctly remember the sense of loss I felt when I learned about the passing of Keith Flint from The Prodigy. In the aftermath, I naturally drifted towards social media to follow the outpouring of tributes and condolences. What struck me as particularly moving was the sheer number of people who recounted their personal experiences with The Prodigy's music, highlighting how it had been a lifeline during challenging times and chapters in their lives. Each of them, in their own way, was embarking on a journey back in time, revisiting those significant moments that had been shaped and defined by the music. It highlights music’s profound ability to connect with the past and provide strength or renewed energy during difficult times. This, naturally, is my interpretation and I also expect this to vary individually. What works for some, may not have the same effect for others.
Track description: The track itself invites you to imagine the sound of the weather in space through a transcendent musical journey. Mysterious sounds, a fusion of the unknown with familiar echoes of nature and industry, unfold. While navigating through the track, it feels like you're encountering these mysterious sounds, weaving a brief yet immersive stellar expedition where the boundaries between space and Earth harmoniously blend.
"Buried" (Track six):
This track is a continuation of a previous theme (“Voices” from 2021), providing a direct response to my constant influx of ideas - a continuous stream that often leads my mind to wander aimlessly. It captures a state of 'being in,' where thoughts refuse to settle, but instead, freely continue exploring various subjects. 'Buried' conveys the feeling of being submerged in ideas, reflecting the time spent managing creative abundance. It explores how this process rescues me from feeling overwhelmed, representing the dynamic struggle between creative abundance and the therapeutic release through artistic expression. However, “Buried” also delves into how this creative flood, though burdensome, offers an escape from overwhelming feelings and the 'noises of life.' It is a musical exploration of the push and pull of creative abundance and the relief it brings.
Track description: ‘Am I coming down to land?’ poses a question as the track gradually slows down, creating a sense of anticipation and preparing for what comes next. Within this gradual descent, there is a short pause before the forthcoming transition. It mirrors a blend of anticipation and an open-minded acceptance of whatever awaits when you get there, whether it be landing or coming to a stop.
“Night time” (Track seven):
Throughout the album, I have mentioned several times that music is a therapy for me - a way to clear my mind from life's constant challenges and noises. This track perfectly aligns with that concept. Long story short, shortly after changing job, I received a call from my previous manager. Expecting a casual catch-up or news about my former workplace, I was surprised when the news turned out to be something completely different. A former colleague, with whom I had worked for nearly 8 years, had suddenly passed away. It was a profound shock, and an incomprehensible sadness overwhelmed me.
Unable to cope after the call, I instinctively went upstairs and sat at my desk. Opening a new file, I began playing around with some samples. Two hours later, I stopped and went to bed, finding it difficult to sleep. The next day felt strange, my mind drifting during work, leading me to listen to what I had created the day before. Somehow, in a short time, I had created an almost complete track - this one. I liked the atmosphere; it somehow resonated with the situation.
Setting the track aside for a few weeks, I revisited it later. Upon doing so, I found it remarkably powerful and decided to complete it for this album. Over the course of a few days, I finalised it. This track has since become a link to ‘going back in time’, a powerful recollection intertwined with a strong memory.
In addition to this moving narrative, there's also a less somber note. Nighttime, a period that has always been my most creative, serves as a sanctuary where I find a bit of peace of mind in the middle of life's chaos, challenges, and surprises. As night unfolds, it becomes the time when my creativity flows at its best. As the world settles into hushed stillness, my senses heighten, and I become one with the night and my flow of creativity. In this restful, almost composed breathing space, my mind is totally free from undesired distractions and "noises."
Track description: ‘Having arrived’, this track echoes the anticipation of what lies beyond the ‘doors’. A gentle slowing down creates a sense of expectation, mirroring the moment of arriving and being on the brink of a new or next experience. It's like stepping into the unknown after arriving, the feeling of “okay, here we go”, open the ‘doors’.
“One day” (Track eight):
Originally, this track was rather lengthy, but it did not resonate with me as I had hoped. It is almost as if, deep down, I knew that it would never quite hit the mark, and “One day” I would inevitably face the challenging decision of either eliminating it entirely or giving it a complete overhaul. What remains in the current version is just a fraction of the nearly nine-minute original composition.
"One Day" delves into the idea of daring to make that difficult decision. It is about recognising when something is not working, despite the significant time and effort invested. It is the moment when you must summon the courage to cast aside the ‘old’ and embrace the ‘new’ or simply move forward. It is a daunting process, knowing that action is required, even when you may not want to take it. The track captures the essence of confronting that inner conflict, where the desire for progress outweighs the reluctance to let go of the past. It is a symbolic journey through the dynamic landscape of creative decision-making.
Track description: The track channels the sensation of walking through an unfamiliar landscape. It gives off a non-threatening atmosphere, inviting a sense of curiosity and presence, allowing for a mindful experience as one moves through the passages.
“The least” (Track nine):
This track embodies the therapeutic power of music, closely connected with "Night Time," "Buried," and the concept of “Going Back in Time”. Initially just a distraction - a spontaneous evening experiment after a long, exhausting day - this piece quickly evolved into a subtle therapeutic experience. The title, "The Least," pays homage to the track's minimalism, characterised by the fewest sounds and samples, making it the shortest piece on the album.
Originally unplanned for the album, 'The Least' emerged in the final stages, shortly before its completion, coinciding with a period of personal challenges. In its simplicity, "The Least" represents an additional therapeutic dimension of musical expression. It signifies a return to a simpler time, providing relief during a period dealing with a lot of personal issues, much like the music that has consistently accompanied me through the various stages of my life.
Track description: The sounds of this track experience a subtle transformation, evolving into a more urban and unnatural ambiance. A tangible sense of tension builds as the sounds and track develop, evoking the atmosphere of entering a workplace.
“Forward motion” (Track ten):
This final track wraps up the album, bringing a sentimental close to this musical journey. As the last track on the album, it does not represent a definitive end but rather functions as a transitional moment, a stepping stone toward what lies ahead. As I reflect upon these words, I find myself standing at a crossroads, uncertain about the future path of my musical exploration and the forthcoming steps to take. While I may not have a concrete plan for the future, one thing is certain, I am filled with an abundance of ideas and creative ventures, perhaps even an overwhelming surplus. "Forward Motions" captures the essence of transition, where closing a chapter not only signifies the abundance of ideas but also incorporates the lessons learned and experiences gained. Each concluded phase becomes a guide for the opportunities that unfold, making the creative process an ever-evolving and lively journey.
Track description: Returning to slightly more familiar sonic landscapes, the track gives a feeling of a relaxing train commute - similar, both familiar and comforting. The gentle sounds create a soothing atmosphere, similar to a regular journey back home. As we approach the final destination, the feeling is one of calm anticipation, ready to move forward with life as usual.