Bartosz Lasecki On the Making Of “II. Nimbostratus”
Can you share any interesting or unique musical elements or production techniques used in "II. Nimbostratus?"
Crafting “II. Nimbostratus” was a musical adventure that spanned across continents. One fascinating element was the fusion of recordings from two vastly different cultural hubs - Warsaw, Poland, and New York City.
Michał Wróblewski, my esteemed mixing engineer and collaborator, conducted sessions in Warsaw. Thanks to modern technology, I was able to actively participate and produce these sessions in real-time using Listento, despite the time difference that had me tuning in at 3AM from New York!
Simultaneously, I was immersed in recording sessions at my studio in New York, bringing together a diverse set of players with varied styles. Merging these distinct sonic palettes posed a significant challenge, especially given the session's magnitude, which sprawled over 200+ tracks. This sheer volume posed intricate challenges, especially for Michał, who meticulously orchestrated every element, ensuring nothing was lost amidst the sea of sounds.
Our goal was far-reaching: not just to blend these geographically diverse recordings, but to encapsulate the spirit and essence of two cultures, intertwining them to produce a sound both harmonious and original; while keeping true to the overarching theme of the album which blends humanity and technology was further accentuated by seamlessly merging organic recordings with orchestral samples and synthesis, providing a sonic glimpse into the android's journey.
For Michał, the mixing process of "II. Nimbostratus" was an intricate dance of complexity and innovation. Tasked with managing a session that boasted over two hundred tracks, he meticulously prioritized each layer, ensuring no detail was overshadowed. Lacking a predefined template or past reference, Michał embraced an improvisational approach. We were driven not by the desire to emulate existing sounds but by the pursuit of genuine originality.
Through collaboration, ingenuity, and countless transatlantic exchanges, I'm proud to say that we've brought to life a distinctive auditory tapestry that encapsulates the ethos of “II. Nimbostratus”.
What was the initial spark or idea that led to the creation of "II. Nimbostratus?"
The inspiration for "II. Nimbostratus" arose from observing the delicate interplay between the organic essence of humanity and the omnipresent force of technology in our modern lives.
At the heart of this suite, the flute takes center stage, channeling one of the most fundamental of human actions – the breath. This elemental act, simple yet profound, symbolizes our innate connection to the natural world in which I wanted to capture the juxtaposition of the organic and the electronic, much like how our world today seamlessly fuses nature and technology.
I believe that we're in this transitional phase where we have one foot rooted in the familiar, organic, pure world and the other foot stepping into an age driven by technology that is headed toward an inevitable symbiosis with machines and Artificial Intelligence.
While I am truly excited about that future and the possibilities it can bring into many fields and uplift our human potential, I would not want the waves of this evolution to wash away our warmth, compassion, and essence.
With "II. Nimbostratus", I endeavored to encapsulate this duality by blending the clear, pure tones of the solo flute with electronic elements. It’s a reflection on how technology has become an integral part of our lives, shaping our interactions and experiences daily. The piece serves as a bridge between the past, represented by the breath and purity of "I. Cirrus", and the potential future that's alluded to in "III. Mammatus".
The full journey and story of the android will be released on January 1st 2024 where you can hear the full odyssey of the android taking shape, complemented by visual depictions that explore our symbiosis with technology.
What impact do you hope this single will have on your audience or the music industry?
With the release of this single and the subsequent pieces to come, my aspiration is for listeners to become deeply engrossed in the evolving narrative of the android. As the second movement, "II. Nimbostratus" offers a glimpse into the intricate dance between humanity and technology, showcasing their growing symbiosis.
In today's fast-paced world, I believe that music has the power to offer solace, becoming a sanctuary where time seems to pause, and emotions take center stage. I aim to offer a moment of tranquility, allowing listeners to momentarily disconnect from their daily pressures and simply be in the moment.
Do you have any specific rituals or routines that help you get into the right mindset for composing?
While I'd love to share a specific ritual or routine, my creative process is less structured. Inspiration often strikes during the simplest moments, like driving or immersing myself in the daily ebb and flow of life.
The quiet allure of the nighttime is particularly special to me. There's an enchantment in composing while the rest of the world rests, with only the gentle lullabies of crickets accompanying me. Rather than beginning with a blank canvas, I let a composition form in my mind, almost in its entirety. Only then do I sit down to translate it into reality. This approach, though perhaps unconventional to some, is inherently me. Even when I dive into Nuendo to bring these internal melodies to life, I always begin with a tangible vision. Who knows? Maybe in the future, I'll experiment with a blank slate, but this method feels right for now.
Of course, it would be remiss of me not to mention Cici and Rufus, my feline partners in crime. Cici has an impeccable knack for choosing the most inopportune moments to initiate playtime in the studio. Rufus, on the other hand, is my diligent sidekick, captivated by the dance of my cursor on the screen and the vibrant hues of the tracks. Often, he's beside me, eyes darting as he follows the blinking lights of synthesizers. Their antics and presence imbue my sessions with warmth and a dash of unpredictability, making the creative process all the more endearing.
Can you share a memorable experience working with other musicians to realize your musical vision?
The experience of creating this album, especially amidst the challenges of a global pandemic, has been nothing short of transformative. It was a journey that began in March 2020, filled with the hurdles of securing recording sessions, studios, and countless remote collaborations. The mixing sessions seemed endless, and throughout, the aim was to present a vision without compromises.
The heart and soul of this project lie not just in my own passion but in the dedication and commitment of the amazing group of individuals I had the privilege to work alongside. Every recording session, whether face-to-face or over a screen, became a testament to trust and shared creative vision. The unwavering belief my collaborators had in my sometimes-unconventional ideas was instrumental in realizing this dream.
This dream has roots stretching back to my childhood. I've longed to create an album, a vision that's been with me for as long as I can remember. To have it now, tangible and complete, is an indescribable feeling.
Michał Wróblewski, a dear friend and collaborator, elevated this album to heights I hadn't even imagined. His dedication, inspiration, and belief—even surpassing my own at times—have been a constant source of strength. Michał's tireless efforts ensured the music came alive in the way I envisioned, and for that, I'll always be grateful. Similarly, Sam Rubinstein, my closest friend, has been a rock. Our late-night sessions, where ideas flowed freely, were instrumental in shaping the project. His steadfast commitment and dedication have been pivotal.
And, of course, my parents, who have been my pillars of support. Their unwavering faith, especially my father's guidance, became my beacon during challenging times.
In essence, while this may be my dream, its realization has been a collective effort, a synergy of shared passion and vision. I'm immensely grateful to each individual who journeyed with me on this path. They've not only contributed to the album but have also enriched my life in countless ways.
