Behind The Notes

Deep Dive: Behind The Notes – Lilith’s Theme

Your people contain incredible potential, but they die without using much of it.

Quote from Dawn by Octavia E. Butler.

Deep Dive: Behind The Notes – Lilith’s Theme

Welcome to another edition of “Deep Dive: Behind The Notes,” where we explore the stories and inspirations behind some of my favorite compositions. Today, we’re taking a closer look at “Lilith’s Theme,” a track from my album Dawn, the first of a planned trilogy inspired by the seminal works of Octavia E. Butler. This trilogy, known collectively as Lilith’s Brood or Xenogenesis, comprises the books Dawn, Adulthood Rites, and Imago.

The Inspiration

“Lilith’s Theme” is directly inspired by the protagonist of Butler’s trilogy, Lilith Iyapo. In Dawn, Lilith awakens to find herself on an alien spaceship after the destruction of Earth. The Oankali, an alien race, have saved what remains of humanity, but at a significant cost. As Lilith grapples with her new reality and the complexities of her relationship with the Oankali, her journey becomes one of survival, adaptation, and profound change.

The Music

Creating “Lilith’s Theme” was a deeply immersive experience. I wanted the piece to be profoundly emotional, capturing Lilith’s intense longing for her family and the familiar world she once knew, now overshadowed by the shock and uncertainty of her new reality.

• Melodic Elements: The melody of “Lilith’s Theme” is intended to be haunting and reflective, mirroring Lilith’s introspective and often conflicted nature. The use of minor keys and dissonant chords helps convey the sense of unease and alienation she feels.
• Rhythmic Patterns: The rhythm is deliberately slow and steady, symbolizing Lilith’s methodical approach to understanding her new reality and her gradual adaptation to life with the Oankali.
• Soundscapes: Ambient soundscapes and synthetic textures are woven throughout the track to create an otherworldly atmosphere. These sounds are meant to represent the alien environment of the Oankali spaceship and the unfamiliarity that Lilith faces.

The Album: Dawn

Dawn is the first installment of a trilogy that aims to musically explore the themes and narratives of Octavia E. Butler’s Lilith’s Brood. Each track on the album is crafted to reflect different aspects of the story, from the desolation of post-apocalyptic Earth to the intricate dynamics between humans and the Oankali.

1. Alive!
   • This track sets the tone for the album, evoking the sense of a new beginning and the fragile hope of survival amidst the ruins of a devastated Earth.
2. Awakenings
   • Capturing the moment Lilith awakens aboard the Oankali ship, this piece conveys the shock, confusion, and gradual realization of her new reality.
3. Jdahya
   • A tribute to Jdahya, the Oankali who first makes contact with Lilith. The music reflects the complex emotions of this encounter, blending curiosity with fear and intrigue.
4. We Are Oankali
   • This track introduces the listener to the Oankali race, their motives, and their unique approach to life. The music aims to represent the alienness and wisdom of this species.
5. Lilith’s Theme
   • An emotional centerpiece of the album, this track delves deep into Lilith’s longing for her family and the life she once knew, juxtaposed with the shock of her current reality.
6. We’ll Divide Here
   • Reflecting a pivotal moment of decision and division, this track conveys the tension and uncertainty that come with making choices that will affect the future.
7. Nikanj
   • A musical portrayal of Nikanj, one of the Oankali who becomes closely involved with Lilith. The track captures the complexity of their relationship and the trust that develops over time.
8. Nursery
   • Set in the nursery where humans are acclimatized to their new environment, this piece evokes a sense of nurturing and adaptation, filled with both hope and unease.
9. Training Floor
   • Representing the rigorous training and preparation that Lilith and others undergo, this track is intense and rhythmic, mirroring the challenges they face.
10. Dinso
    • Named after the Oankali term for those who choose to live with humans, this track explores themes of unity, cooperation, and the blending of two species.
11. Let Me Share What You Feel
    • Echoing motifs from Lilith’s Theme, this piece delves into the deep emotional connections and shared experiences between characters, highlighting empathy and understanding.
12. Learn and Run
    • The final track captures the urgency and determination of survival, learning from past experiences, and moving forward despite the unknown.

Additionally, you’ll hear the poignant melodies of “Lilith’s Theme” repeated in “Let Me Share What You Feel,” reinforcing the emotional core of the album.

• Future Albums: The next albums, Adulthood Rites and Imago, will continue this exploration, delving deeper into the evolution of human-alien relationships and the transformative journeys of the characters.

The Creative Process

Creating “Lilith’s Theme” involved a deep dive into the emotional and thematic content of Butler’s work. I revisited key scenes and passages from Dawn to ensure that the music resonated with the book’s core messages. The goal was to create a piece that not only stands alone as a musical composition but also enhances the listener’s understanding and appreciation of Butler’s narrative.

Closing Thoughts

“Lilith’s Theme” is more than just a track; it’s an homage to one of science fiction’s most compelling characters and the incredible world that Octavia E. Butler created. As I continue to work on the remaining albums in this trilogy, I look forward to further exploring the rich tapestry of themes and emotions that Lilith’s Brood offers.

Thank you for joining me on this deep dive. I hope “Lilith’s Theme” resonates with you and adds a new dimension to your appreciation of Butler’s work. Stay tuned for more insights into my creative process and the stories behind the music.

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Soundscapes To Explore

• Keith Richie – Dawn (Choose Service)
• More About Dawn and Lilith’s Brood
• More About Keith Richie

Deep Dive: Behind The Notes – Epica

Epica is, without a doubt, one of 2021’s most notable New Age music releases.

Keith Richie – Epica | New Age Music Guide

Deep Dive: Behind The Notes – Epica

Each musical composition carries its own unique narrative, a blend of feelings, experiences, and motives that inspired its creation. In today’s post, I welcome you to explore the myriad influences that shaped my album Epica. Originally launched as a standalone single, it later became the cornerstone for an entire album. Like all the music I craft, this piece is a complex weave of stories and emotions. Join me on this harmonious expedition as we delve into the detailed tales that breathed life into Epica.

The Forgotten Purchase: A Tale of Rediscovering Light & Shadow

One day while at the office, I stumbled upon a post from my friend Sean McDonough (Learn more about him here: Sean’s Website). He was talking about a plugin by Mimi Page (Learn more about Mimi here: Mimi’s Wikipedia) known as Light & Shadow. Sean tagged me in the post, mentioning that he was considering buying it. Intrigued, I went ahead and purchased a copy. However, when I returned home to explore the plugin, I realized I had already bought it a month earlier and completely forgotten! I can’t quite recall if I ever cancelled the second purchase, but I think I let it stand as an extra token of support for Mimi.

The Birth of ‘Other Worlds Than These’: How ‘Ambient Highways’ Paved the Way for ‘A2’

As I delved into the Light & Shadows plugin, inspiration struck and I soon found myself with a fully-developed song. Seeking additional input, I invited my wife to listen and offer her invaluable feedback, leading to pivotal refinements to the composition. At this time, I was also gearing up to release an album through my fledgling publishing label, “Other Worlds Than These.” This project, publicly known as “A2,” was originally slated to be the label’s debut release, and I had contemplated naming the album “Phoenix” to encapsulate the vision for my new venture. However, after discussions with my wife and close friends, we collectively decided to first re-release “Ambient Highways” under the new label, postponing the “A2” project for a later date.

Upon establishing my “Other Worlds Than These” enterprise, I began the gradual task of withdrawing my previously released albums, originally published under my own name, to prepare them for re-release under the new label. For a brief window, the only track available from my catalog across major digital platforms was a single from the “A2” album. This single, aptly named “There Are Other Worlds Than These,” was the inaugural release under the “Other Worlds Than These” label.

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A Special Invitation for Our Readers

Did you know that there’s an exclusive realm where our most passionate supporters get to experience these narratives ahead of everyone else? Over at Other Worlds Than These on Patreon, our patrons enjoy early access to articles like this one, granting them a unique perspective before it reaches the wider audience. This means being at the forefront, exploring uncharted territories, and gaining a privileged glimpse into the creative process, including the unveiling of new songs. If you share our appreciation for these musical odysseys and wish to be part of this inner circle, consider joining our community as a patron. Your support fuels these endeavors and unlocks a realm of behind-the-scenes insights

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The Evolution of “Epica”: From a Single to the Album’s Namesake

Having released the single “There Are Other Worlds Than These,” completed the track “Epica,” and launched Ambient Highways on vinyl for the first time, my focus shifted to wrapping up the remaining tracks for the album originally titled “Pheonix.” However, as “Epica” gained traction as a single, the name “Pheonix” lost its relevance for the album title. Consequently, I chose to rename the album to “Epica.”

The album kicks off with the track “Remote Isolation,” composed at the onset of the global COVID-19 pandemic, when we were all confined to our homes. The song captures the collective apprehension many of us felt—wondering if this crisis would decimate a large part of the global population and contemplating what the world might look like in the aftermath.

The second track, “Rebirth,” was initially intended to be the album’s opening number, aligning closely with the album’s original title, “Pheonix.” Despite the change in the album’s theme, the tone of “Rebirth” still resonates with the rest of the album, so I chose to keep its title intact.

This is succeeded by the track “Dawn.” While I can’t precisely recall the original sequence of songs, I do know that “Dawn” was designed to kick off the album’s second half. Interestingly, “Dusk”—a track that appears later in the album—was originally positioned as the closing song for the first half of the project.

This setup created a natural shift from “Dusk” to “Dawn,” marking the album’s transition into its second act.

Following this, “Tiny Creatures” serves as the next track’s title. I penned this piece in memory of one of our recently departed feline companions.

Its auditory quality feels, at least to me, like an homage to Isao Tomita. Known as a groundbreaking Japanese composer, Tomita is widely considered a pioneer in the realms of electronic and space music.

I was first made aware of Tomita via his rendition of Arabesque No. 1, which was used as the closing music for Jack Horkheimer: Star Hustler, which started in 1976 and was broadcast nationally in 1985.

Coming after “Tiny Creatures,” the next track is “Jade.” Initially named “Yellow Roses,” this song was a long-time work in progress, originally written in tribute to my mother who passed away a decade ago this month. Despite my best efforts, the composition never felt quite right. Then, one day, I made some significant tonal adjustments that led my wife to envision a Jade Princess, and the song finally clicked into place.

Following that, the album moves into the earlier-mentioned track “Dusk,” then transitions to the title song “Epica,” and concludes with the piece “There Are Other Worlds Than These.”

A Multifaceted World: The Inspiration Behind Epica

Describing the album to others has proven challenging; it’s more than just music—it’s a journey through a mythical realm named Epica, filled with enigmatic and otherworldly phenomena. Unsurprisingly, this concept meshed seamlessly with the world setting of my solo Dungeons & Dragons game, Blyris Bledstone’s Menagerie of Curiosities, which I ultimately decided to call the land this game is set within.

In the long run, I intend to keep composing music to enrich the world of Epica in my games. It’s entirely possible that some tracks from the Aural Realms collection could make their way into this imaginative setting.

Closing Thoughts

As we come to the end of this deep dive into the multi-layered tapestry that is Epica, it’s evident that this musical endeavor is far more than a collection of notes and melodies. It’s a journey through inspiration and self-discovery, shaped by diverse influences from plugins rediscovered to the guidance of close loved ones. From its inception as a standalone single to its transformation into a full-fledged album, each song in Epica bears its own story and emotional core.

Moreover, the album doesn’t just exist in a musical vacuum; it extends into the realms of my solo Dungeons & Dragons game, adding an extra layer of depth to both the game and the music. Epica stands as a testament to the enduring power of creative collaboration and the uncharted territories one can explore when various forms of art intersect.

Thank you for joining me on this harmonious expedition through the world of Epica. As I continue to compose new pieces to enrich this fantastical world, who knows what other magical realms we might discover together in the future. Your journey into the “Other Worlds Than These” has only just begun.

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Soundscapes To Explore

• Keith Richie – Epica (Choose Service)
• Epica – Other Worlds Than These
• Journeyscapes Radio: Album Review: Epica by Keith Richie
• Keith Richie – Epica | New Age Music Guide

Deep Dive: Behind The Notes – Ambient Highways

Music is healing. Music holds things together.

Prince

Deep Dive: Behind The Notes – Ambient Highways

Every musical piece has its own story, a symphony of experiences, emotions, and intentions that led to its birth. In this new series, “Deep Dive: Behind the Notes”, I invite you on a journey to uncover the layers of inspiration behind individual tracks. Our inaugural exploration begins with “Ambient Highways“, the title track of my cherished album. This piece, like every note I compose, has a rich tapestry of stories and emotions intertwined. Let’s embark on this melodic journey and discover the intricate narratives that gave life to “Ambient Highways”.

From Sidetracks to Spotlight: The Initial Journey of ‘Ambient Highway’

Back in 2015, I brought “Ambient Highways” to the world, an album that encapsulated a unique chapter of my musical journey. Yet the origin of its title track traces back even further, to its singular form as “Ambient Highway”.

Before it found its rightful place, “Ambient Highway” initially made its appearance on an album titled “Sidetracks – Volume 3” which was released in 2005. It was next to the last song on the album. The ‘Sidetracks’ series was born out of necessity — a home for melodies that, while brimming with passion and potential, didn’t quite align with the narrative of their intended projects. These weren’t rejected tunes, but rather tracks that had wandered off the path I had set for them. They were the misfits, the wanderers, the songs that sought a different tale to tell. Hence, the ‘Sidetracks’ albums became the sanctuaries for such tracks — a place where they weren’t overshadowed but rather celebrated for their unique identities.

It was amidst this backdrop that “Ambient Highway” found its initial audience. But as time moved on, it became evident that this particular track held a universe within its notes, beckoning for a deeper exploration. This realization propelled its evolution into “Ambient Highways”, growing and morphing, yet retaining the essence of its origin.

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A Special Invitation for Our Readers

Before we embark on this journey to uncover the depths of “Ambient Highways,” did you know that there’s an exclusive realm where our most passionate supporters get to experience these narratives ahead of everyone else? Over at Other Worlds Than These on Patreon, our patrons enjoy early access to articles like this one, granting them a unique perspective before it reaches the wider audience. This means being at the forefront, exploring uncharted territories, and gaining a privileged glimpse into the creative process, including the unveiling of new songs. If you share our appreciation for these musical odysseys and wish to be part of this inner circle, consider joining our community as a patron. Your support fuels these endeavors and unlocks a realm of behind-the-scenes insights

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Genesis on the Journey Home

As memory serves, the birth of “Ambient Highway” took place during a family vacation, specifically on the drive back home. The foundational melody lodged itself firmly in my mind, playing on a loop like an insistent echo. I imagined a delicate arpeggio, reminiscent of a music box, gently unfurling. Over this, the melancholic notes of a soft piano emerged, harmoniously mingling with rich orchestral layers. Yet, despite my deep affection for that initial melody, the early version didn’t quite mirror the soundscape I had envisioned. It took years, and the acquisition of the right equipment, before I could truly breathe life into the song as I had originally heard it in the corridors of my mind.

Crafting the ideal soundscape, especially with a tune as evocative as “Ambient Highway”, was a challenge that demanded both creativity and patience. In those early days, the symphony in my mind outpaced the capabilities of the equipment at my fingertips. Every aspiring and experienced musician knows this frustration well: the pursuit of that perfect tone, that flawless timbre, often feels like trying to catch smoke with bare hands.

With the limited tools I had, I embarked on a relentless quest to capture the orchestral essence that the track deserved. Patching together sounds, tweaking parameters, and countless hours of experimentation became the norm. Often, I’d find myself on the brink of satisfaction, only to feel that something was still amiss. It was like piecing together a jigsaw puzzle where the final picture was clear in my mind, but some of the pieces didn’t quite fit.

For my fellow musicians reading this, you surely recognize this dance. When the sound in your heart doesn’t match what emanates from your speakers, what do you do? Do you adapt, improvise, or continue to chase that elusive echo until it’s realized?

In the end, I reached a serene acceptance with the rendition of the song as it stood. While it might not have fully mirrored my grandest vision, its essence was undeniably genuine and touching. Recognizing its value, I gave “Ambient Highway” its rightful space on ‘Sidetracks Volume 3’, where it could shine in its own distinct light.

Lost and Found: The Resonance of Rediscovery

Over the subsequent years, I grappled with the challenge of finding my musical identity. Searching for a signature sound that truly represented me felt like navigating a labyrinth. Due to personal trauma and the emotional toll it took, I took a hiatus from creating music altogether, pressing pause on my artistic journey for a while.

The path to defining my unique sound was akin to traversing a complex maze. There were moments of clarity, glimpses of the destination, but the journey was fraught with obstacles and uncertainties. Amongst these challenges, a lost track from my past surfaced, promising to be the cornerstone of an entire album.

Every note, every chord progression was chosen meticulously, aiming to convey profound emotions and fleeting moments of clarity amidst life’s chaos. Faced with a whirlwind of ideas, I felt trapped behind an invisible barrier. Yet, with determination, I let intuition guide my fingers on the keys, shaping the melodies and harmonies that culminated in the present-day rendition of Ambient Highways.

Suddenly, with that breakthrough, an entire album began to effortlessly take shape.

From a Whisper to an Anthem: The Odyssey of Ambient Highways

It was with “Neutrino” that the barriers began to crumble, an exploratory tune that carved a path of inspiration. This was followed by “V Feeling”, which evolved with a raw, organic elegance. Each melody, each progression, felt like rekindling a passion I feared was lost to time. They coalesced, forming a symphonic letter I had yearned to share.

Following “V Feeling”, a revelation dawned upon me. As I revisited the familiar strains of “Ambient Highway”, I began to tinker, enhancing it with the evolved vision I had nurtured over the years. With the advancement of my equipment and a honed musical acumen, I was finally able to capture the sound that had eluded me for so long. It was a eureka moment — the track began to transform, aligning closer to the symphony I had originally imagined. Its transformation signified its readiness to find a place in the forthcoming album, a creation that was still awaiting its rightful name, but was, undeniably, taking on a life of its own.

While I was engrossed in composing these new melodies, my wife played an instrumental role in shaping the visual identity of the tracks. As each song blossomed, she crafted evocative artwork to accompany my early renditions — a gesture meant for our exclusive fans who were privy to the nascent stages of the album. Her designs weren’t merely placeholders; they breathed life into the music, creating an immersive experience for those fortunate enough to witness the fusion of sound and sight.

The pinnacle of this artistic collaboration came when she listened to what would become the title track. The visual she crafted for “Ambient Highway” was nothing short of transformative. She captured its essence in a striking visual. Her cover art mirrored the depths and heights of my musical sojourn, dispelling any remnants of my creative hurdles. It encapsulated the album’s essence, reflecting the ebb and flow, the highs and lows of my musical journey. Any lingering barriers or doubts I harbored were washed away by her visual interpretation. Her vision for this particular track was so compelling, it led me to christen the entire album “Ambient Highways”, and I felt a renewed connection with the song, prompting its renaming to match the album’s title. This seamless integration of music and art underscored our shared journey, a testament to the harmony of our creative spirits.

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Exclusive Offer for Patreon Supporters

For my cherished supporters on the “Bardic Inspiration Tier” at Patreon, I have something special: the first and final versions of “Ambient Highways”. Witness its evolution from inception to completion.

If you’re not yet a patron, this is your chance! By joining the Bardic Inspiration Tier, you’ll access this exclusive content and other unique rewards. Your support fuels my creativity and helps bring more music to life.

Interested? Become a patron today at https://patreon.com/owtt and dive deeper into the music.

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From Digital Debut to Vinyl Victory

In 2015, the world was introduced to “Ambient Highways,” an album that encapsulated countless hours of passion, introspection, and collaboration. However, my journey with this album was far from over. As the years rolled by, technology and my personal expertise evolved, presenting an opportunity to revisit this personal opus. In 2021, I undertook the task of expanding and remastering the tracks, ensuring that every note, every nuance resonated with even greater clarity and depth than before. But the crowning achievement was yet to come. That same year, “Ambient Highways” made its grand debut on vinyl, a milestone I had always aspired to reach. Holding that record, feeling its weight, and hearing the album in its warm, analog glory was a testament to the journey — from a melody conceived on a family vacation to a tangible piece of art that could be felt and heard in a whole new dimension.

Eighteen years since that initial melody stirred within me, the passage of time feels both swift and infinite. Today, I can immerse myself in “Ambient Highways”, tracing its journey from the first tentative note to its evocative conclusion. For me, this composition serves as a serene haven amidst life’s storms, a lucid instant of reflection. It’s my earnest desire that it provides you with the same solace. I’m elated to share it with you in its truest form, precisely as it was envisioned.

Closing Thoughts

From the nascent strains of a melody born on a family vacation to the fully realized symphony of “Ambient Highways”, this journey has been a testament to the ebb and flow of creativity, the challenges faced, and the triumph of a vision realized. It’s an intimate voyage I’ve been privileged to share with you, giving a glimpse behind the curtain of musical creation.

Did you find this deep dive enlightening and enjoyable? Was venturing into the story behind the notes a journey you’d want to embark on again? Your feedback is invaluable. If you’re keen on diving deeper into more stories behind the music, let me know. Your desire to explore further fuels my passion to share more of these ‘Deep Dives: Behind The Notes’ with you.

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Soundscapes To Explore

• Ambient Highways (Choose Service)
• Ambient Highways – Other Worlds Than These (Vinyl and CD)