Blue Harvest Records is a green minded endeavor that is dedicated to reducing the amount of consumer waste that is generated by the production of music related products.

Monday, March 19, 2012

Michael Elam-Zusammenhang




'Michael Elam-Zusammanhang' is a work inspired by the interconnected nature of man and land. The emphasis of this collection is "man as an agent of change", and the meanings of which the human race adheres to the landscape it exists upon which changes space to place.











The full collection is set for release in early July 2012

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Tuesday, February 28, 2012

TRE (Experimental Short Film) by Vic Alarcon



'TRE'(©2010 Cinercon Studios) is a short film by Vic Alarcon featuring the music of Michael Elam's 'Opening the Seal' and 'Son of Man' from the 2010 'Witch Hiker' release. It is always a pleasure to see the way other creative minds use our music (especially when it pertains to film).

Vic Alarcon is a Los Angeles based writer, director, and cinematographer. His latest work is a short film called 'Bully', which (according to IMBD) is based upon the simple storyline of "A young man named Jeff struggles to free himself from a bully".

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Wednesday, January 04, 2012

Go on...Blip it!

qrcode

Wednesday, December 21, 2011

Wakefield







The 'Michael Elam-Wakefield' single now available on bandcamp. This release is the first Blue Harvest Records attempt at reinterpreting the evolving DubStep genre by incorporating ambient and psychedelic elements into the already lurching beats. The single is $1 (USD) and available as a download.

All rights are reserved, but remixes will be considered with proper attribution.

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Tuesday, November 22, 2011

GET FIXED



'Rust Belt Refugees-GET FIXED' (2011 Blue Harvest Records) is now available as a free download. This is the second effort from the four piece led by Michael Elam. 'GET FIXED' employs a smoother groove, slower tempos, and a shift of emphasis from saxophone to flute as a the lead melodic instrument; as well as tight syncopated organ grooves from a recently acquired Hammond. GET FIXED emulates 1970's era soundtrack themes and purposefully conjures the feel of a Blaxploitation film.

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Wednesday, November 02, 2011

Celestial Procession (pt.3)



Witness my best attempt at hypnotism and re-visiting the legacy of 'Twin Peaks' by way channeling the haunting compositions of Angelo Badalamenti into my own work‎. All of which is packaged neatly into a three part trilogy that was originally intended to be a dream sequence. 'Heightened Awareness of the Unknown Gods' is Blue Harvest Records first video only project. It includes: Astral Destinations (pt.1), The Man Bearing Water (pt.2), and Celestial Procession (pt.3). The trilogy can be viewed in its entirety here.

-Michael Elam

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Tuesday, October 25, 2011

The Man Bearing Water



Latest film from the video only project 'Heightened Awareness of the Unknown Gods' by Michael Elam. This work focuses on the conspiracy of a New World Order and the impending 'Agenda 21', as well as the immaculatly calculated establishment of a human disconnect from its spiritual environment.

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Friday, September 23, 2011

Anti-Socialist Pledge


The Socialist-Free Purity Pledge
I, _____________, do solemnly swear to uphold the principles of a socialism-free society and heretofore pledge my word that I shall strictly adhere to the following:
I will complain about the destruction of 1st Amendment Rights in this country, while I am duly being allowed to exercise my 1st Amendment Rights.
I will complain about the destruction of my 2nd Amendment Rights in this country, while I am duly being allowed to exercise my 2nd Amendment rights by legally but brazenly brandishing unconcealed firearms in public.
I will foreswear the time-honored principles of fairness, decency, and respect by screaming unintelligible platitudes regarding tyranny, Nazi-ism, and socialism at public town halls. Also.
I pledge to eliminate all government intervention in my life. I will abstain from the use of and participation in any socialist goods and services including but not limited to the following:
* Social Security
* Medicare/Medicaid
* State Children’s Health Insurance Programs (SCHIP)
* Police, Fire, and Emergency Services
* US Postal Service
* Roads and Highways
* Air Travel (regulated by the socialist FAA)
* The US Railway System
* Public Subways and Metro Systems
* Public Bus and Lightrail Systems
* Rest Areas on Highways
* Sidewalks
* All Government-Funded Local/State Projects (e.g., see Iowa 2009 federal senate appropriations)
* Public Water and Sewer Services (goodbye socialist toilet, shower, dishwasher, kitchen sink, outdoor hose!)
* Public and State Universities and Colleges
* Public Primary and Secondary Schools
* Sesame Street
* Publicly Funded Anti-Drug Use Education for Children
* Public Museums
* Libraries
* Public Parks and Beaches
* State and National Parks
* Public Zoos
* Unemployment Insurance
* Municipal Garbage and Recycling Services
* Treatment at Any Hospital or Clinic That Ever Received Funding From Local, State or
Federal Government (pretty much all of them)
* Medical Services and Medications That Were Created or Derived From Any Government Grant or Research Funding (again, pretty much all of them)
* Socialist Byproducts of Government Investment Such as Duct Tape and Velcro (Nazi-NASA Inventions)
* Use of the Internets, email, and networked computers, as the DoD’s ARPANET was the basis for subsequent computer networking
* Foodstuffs, Meats, Produce and Crops That Were Grown With, Fed With, Raised With or That Contain Inputs From Crops Grown With Government Subsidies
* Clothing Made from Crops (e.g. cotton) That Were Grown With or That Contain Inputs From Government Subsidies
* If a veteran of the government-run socialist US military, I will forego my VA benefits and insist on paying for my own medical care
I will not tour socialist government buildings like the Capitol in Washington, D.C.
I pledge to never take myself, my family, or my children on a tour of the following types of socialist
locations, including but not limited to:
* Smithsonian Museums such as the Air and Space Museum or Museum of American History
* The socialist Washington, Lincoln, and Jefferson Monuments
* The government-operated Statue of Liberty
* The Grand Canyon
* The socialist World War II and Vietnam Veterans Memorials
* The government-run socialist-propaganda location known as Arlington National Cemetery
* All other public-funded socialist sites, whether it be in my state or in Washington, DC
I will urge my Member of Congress and Senators to forego their government salary and
government-provided healthcare.
I will oppose and condemn the government-funded and therefore socialist military of the United States of America.
I will boycott the products of socialist defense contractors such as GE, Lockheed-Martin, Boeing, Northrop Grumman, General Dynamics, Raytheon, Humana, FedEx, General Motors, Honeywell, and hundreds of others that are paid by our socialist government to produce goods for our socialist army.
I will protest socialist security departments such as the Pentagon, FBI, CIA, Department of Homeland Security, TSA, Department of Justice and their socialist employees.
Upon reaching eligible retirement age, I will tear up my socialist Social Security checks.
Upon reaching age 65, I will forego Medicare and pay for my own private health insurance until I die.
SWORN ON A BIBLE AND SIGNED THIS DAY OF ___ IN THE YEAR ____.
___________________________

___________________________
Signed Printed Name/Town and State Flag


Because socialism is awful.

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Thursday, September 15, 2011

Michael Elam-Astral Destinations




'Michael Elam-Astral Destinations' from the video only release 'Heightened Awareness of the Unknown Gods'. You can expect this release to be full of mystic spiritualism, conspiracy, self awareness, and the hypnotic trance rhythms of an ambient soundtrack worthy of praise from a yogi.

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Friday, August 05, 2011

Nickolai-The Installment





'Nickolai-The Installment' is a collection of absurd soundscapes that conjure an unsuspecting point of view, while constructing the smooth textures of a syrupy, synthpop-esque, lounge act. Based in Hibbing, Minnesota, Nickolai pokes fun at the uncomfortable interruptions and benign nature of the caloric intake of daily life.

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Wednesday, May 25, 2011

Michael Elam-Bearing Gifts in the House of a Thief


'Michael Elam-Bearing Gifts in the House of a Thief' is now available as a free download. With over 50 minutes of harsh electronics, this release is by far the most experimental and aggressive effort that Blue Harvest Records has ever released.








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Wednesday, May 04, 2011

Charlie West Volume1



'Charlie West Vol.1' is now available as a free download. Charlie West is slated to release a series of post-impressionistic, experimental compositions over the next year beginning with 'Volume 1'.

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Wednesday, April 20, 2011

Anna Pekar-Consume the Morning Dew



'Anna Pekar-Consume the Morning Dew' is now available as a free download. This release is Anna's first solo release. It is a concept piece based upon the Old Norse mythological legend of 'Ragnarök' or 'The Doom of the Gods' as it loosely translates.

This album focuses on the 'Vafþrúðnismál' poem associated with the myth. Specifically, the Norse god Odin's wrath on mankind; the 'Fimbulvetr ("Mighty Winter") and the survival of 'Líf and Lífþrasir' as they will hide in the forest of Hoddmímis holt. 'Líf and Lífþrasir' are much like Adam and Eve as they hide in a magical forest, consuming the morning dew, and producing generations of offspring.

Sound Confusing? You're not alone. This is some pretty heavy stuff for listeners not familiar with Norse mythology. That's why we love Anna...

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Wednesday, April 06, 2011

Anna Pekar solo album



The video for 'the one who strives after life' is the first installment from Anna Pekar's latest release 'Consume the Morning Dew'. This is her first solo effort, and we are proud to be releasing it on Blue Harvest Records. The tentative release date is April 20,2011.

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Friday, February 18, 2011

The Michael Elam Band-LONG BLACK VEIL



The traditional 'Long Black Veil' has always been a favorite of mine. I finally decided to record my own arrangement of this dark classic. This track will be available on the next Michael Elam Band release along with other traditional songs from the British Isles.

Monday, January 10, 2011

The DuBside-Sounds of the Strange






'The DuBside-Sounds of the Strange' is Producer Cody Novak's debut release on Blue Harvest Records. This release is a pumping, 8-bit charged, journey of eleven tracks that jump out of the gate with the flare of classic hard techno, infused with old school video game samples. 'Sounds of the Strange' eventually comes to rest with a couple of chill-out, drum and bass tracks that complete the sonic journey by tastefully sliding across electronic genres.

'The DuBside-Sounds of the Strange' is now available as a free download.

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Thursday, December 30, 2010

Rust Belt Refugees-Slumlord EP




'Rust Belt Refugees' are a Jazz quartet (Keys, Sax, Drums, Bass) that play the compositions of Michael Elam. Their four song debut EP ('Slumlord') is now available as a free download.

This project could be described as Urban, Swanky, Midnight smooth jazz that is reminiscent of adult themed, late night cable circa 1994...Yeah...you get the picture; martinis, strip clubs, dirty cops, and a healthy channeling of the underbelly of urban society. 'Slumlord' is a soundtrack for a place where good girls go bad and bad men find redemption as guardian angels, martyrs, and reluctant heroes.



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Tuesday, December 14, 2010

New Products







The new Blue Harvest Records store is up and running with plenty of great new exclusive items designed by our team of contributors.

The Cafe Press stores will still carry the band and record label merch designed by Chris Eatherton.

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Saturday, December 11, 2010


'Michael Elam-Abandoned Lands of the Veiled Sojourner' is now available as a free download. This latest release is a concept album inspired by the ancestral memories of a mystic traveler. All songs were composed, engineered, and produced by Michael Elam. This work was released by Blue Harvest Records on December 4, 2010.

In other news, please stay tuned for the upcoming Blue Harvest Records collaboration: 'Rust Belt Refugees' and their tentatively titled release 'Slumlord'. This project is a jazz quartet (Keys, Sax, Drums, Bass) that will be playing the compositions of Michael Elam.




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Friday, November 26, 2010

Bad Acid Magazine



Bad Acid Magazine just released their last ever issue (TAB 10). This issue is a triple Burnout issue, containing Tabs 10, 11, 12 plus bonus material. Including 160 Screen color PDF magazine, 300+ band/ 40+ hour Audio Compilation, 4 Hour DVD, and a 108 minute bonus mp4 footage. It is available for online purchase at badacidmagazine.com for £20(UK), £21 (EU), and £22 (Worldwide)

Blue Harvest Records has both an audio (Michael Elam) and a video contribution (White Van Audio Scam-Promo) in this issue.


Bad Acid Magazine is currently making the transition away from the magazine and towards a weekly podcast :

Blotter:The Bad Acid podcast

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Monday, November 08, 2010

Michael Elam-Present Tense




'Michael Elam-Present Tense' is now available as a free download. The most recent focus has been to create dark ambient pieces that are suitable for usage as a cinematic background score.

In the past few months, Blue Harvest Records has seen an increasing interest in the usage of our music as an accompaniment to film. We hope to continue this trend, as it is far more fulfilling than playing shows in bars and coffee houses. Stay tuned as we will have some interesting news about future music/film collaborations that are falling together as this is being written.

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Sunday, October 24, 2010

Salvation and Shame



We have just finished the video for 'Salvation and Shame' from the upcoming Michael Elam album 'Present Tense' to be released by Blue Harvest Records (December 2010).

Wednesday, October 06, 2010

Michael Elam-Cinémathèque




'Michael Elam-Cinematheque' is now available as a free download. 'Cinematheque' is a VHS inspired, soundtrack themed, electronic concept piece. With the exception of a few obscure samples, the album is entirely instrumental. This release was inspired by movie soundtracks from 1980's, films from the home video era such as: 'Explorers', 'Running Man' and 'Mad Max: Beyond the Thunderdome'.

Blue Harvest Records has recently begun a collaboration with Psychosomatic Films based in Columbus, Ohio. Their latest release "PsychoSocial' utilized the songs 'Circle of Summons', "The White Horse', 'Son of Man', and 'Trembling in the Square'. The film was debuted on Oct.16, 2010 (4PM) at the film festival portion of Synerfest, which was held at the A & R Bar in the Arena District (Columbus, Ohio).

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Saturday, August 21, 2010

Spastic Gymnastic

video

Kids are wonderful.

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Monday, April 19, 2010

Art All Night-Pittsburgh (April 24-25, 2010)



Michael Elam's film project (Recycled Valentines) will be featured at the 'Art All Night' video lounge on April 24-25th, 2010 in the Historic Iron City Brewery (Lawrenceville, PA). This is free event.

(from artallnight.com) Art All Night is an uncensored, non-juried art show occurring the last weekend in April in the Lawrenceville neighborhood of Pittsburgh. The event starts on the Saturday night and goes all night until Sunday afternoon. Art All Night is a grassroots event staged by an all-volunteer crew. A joyful celebration of the arts and community, the show grows in popularity each year, bringing thousands of people from all over the region into Lawrenceville. In 2009 Art All Night Lawrenceville featured work by 1034 artists and was attended by over 10,000 guests.

Iron City Brewery
3340 Liberty Avenue,
Lawrenceville, PA
16929

(This is a free event)

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Wednesday, March 31, 2010

Hum Through The Veil


Blue Harvest Records collaborator 'The Rhythm and the Cadence' has released a new album 'Hum Through the Veil' as a free download.

This download is the unedited free version of The Rhythm & the Cadence's third release recorded in Portland, Oregon between 2008 and 2010. 'Hum Through the Veil' is one flowing uncut piece that comes in at about 36 minutes. This work explores the Chaos and Complexity Theory and its emotional, spiritual and societal implications through the medium of sound and sound experimentation. This is meant to be enjoyed as a single piece of music with seven different themes. They are as follows:

(0:00)De-evolution of Franklin Mills
(7:33)Red Tide Bloom
(15:10)Meat Machine is Broken
(17:16)No Faith in the System
(21:10)Burning off the Fog
(28:42)Take Comfort in Chaos
(31:32)Solitude No.1

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Wednesday, March 10, 2010

Michael Elam-Witchhiker



'Michael Elam-Witch Hiker'is the third installment of an apocalyptic trilogy that focuses on the traditional view of Biblical end times. The album art is a screen capture from google earth street view that happens to be a complete chance occurrence in which a cloaked jogger is photographed in motion. Again, found objects have inspired entire creative works. 'Witch Hiker' is probably my most EPIC work thus far. You'll probably need to strap on the chain mail and sharpen your battle axe for the opening track and then onward to fight the greatest battle of all eternity...or at least sit back with a tankard of the finest Meade while reminiscing great conquests of past role playing games.








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Thursday, February 25, 2010

Michael Elam-Pestilence



'Michael Elam-Pestilence'(2010 Blue Harvest Records) is the second release of 2010 for Blue Harvest Records. It is the second installment of a three part series focused on the current demise of world civilization.

The first installment(Michael Elam-Amongst the Masses) was influenced by the downfall of the industrial/manufacturing economy and the remnants that are left behind (specifically in the Eastern Midwest of the United States). The album as a whole attempts to portray the feelings of complacent anger, and a notion of a generally disenfranchised society left to deal with the absence of employment.

The second installment (Michael Elam-Pestilence), focuses on the threat of a viral pandemic in the shadow of the 2012 apocalyptic prophesy.

Both albums are available as free downloads.

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Monday, February 15, 2010

Shit on a Stick

'Shit on a Stick' is a noise collage by 'The Rhythm and the Cadence' (Portland, Oregon). This piece has been floating around the Blue Harvest Records achives for about five years, I guess it was finally time to employ its absurdity. The phrase "Shit on a Stick" is an exclamatory derivative from the Appalachian expression "Shitty end of the stick". Which in no way actually implies the usage of feces, but is more indicative of an unfavorable situation. The imploding building is an irrelivant metaphor only used to emphasize a bad situation.

Enjoy!

Monday, February 08, 2010

My Name is Joe

'My Name is Joe' is a short film using public domain film footage from 'Office Safety' and a noise collage crafted by 'The Rhythm and the Cadence' (Portland, Oregon).

Wednesday, February 03, 2010

Michael Elam-Wasteland

The second video from the 'Michael Elam-Amongst the Masses' release (2010 Blue Harvest Records) is 'Wasteland' . 'Wasteland' features footage from the 1971 public domain film 'Sentinels of Silence'. The focus of this piece is based on the threat of the alleged 2012 Mayan apocalypse, and the beauty of the southern pyramids and temples (i.e. Chichen Itza).

Enjoy!

Monday, January 25, 2010

Trembling in the Square

'Trembling in the Square' is the first video from the 'Michael Elam-Amongst the Masses' release (2010 Blue Harvest Records). The video features footage from the public domain film 'Imaging a Hidden world' (archive.org), which showcases some of the landmark discoveries made by the microscope (including viruses, bacterium, prions, and the growth of crystals).

All of this brings to mind a parable; just because you can not see something, or refuse to believe...does not mean it fails to exist.

Monday, January 04, 2010

Amongst the Masses



Michael Elam-Amongst the Masses is now available as a free download. This is our first release of 2010, I hope you enjoy all of its spooky overtones and innuendos.




Enjoy!

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Tuesday, December 22, 2009

Recycled Valentines



After a decade of making short films, Blue Harvest Records will release a collection of short films (and music videos) as a limited edition DVD-R. Before you ask...we have not yet secured the rights to release 'Stoner', therefore it will not be included in this release. We hope to acquire this licensing at a later date.

Recycled Valentines (DVD-R)
$10(USD)+ Shipping (international rates will vary)

White Van Audio Scam-Brand Name Game
The Lazarus Plain-From a Poison Thorn
The Lazarus Plain-St. Vitus' Fury
Chris Burkey-Pile of Bones
Chris Burkey-Experiment 200
Chris Burkey-Sneeze
Michael Elam-Fallout
Michael Elam-In a Single Minute
Michael Elam-Strained Relationship
Michael Elam-Locust
Michael Elam-Carolina Creeper
Michael Elam-Shadow of Creation
Michael Elam-The Ulstermans' Remorse
Septimus Bean-The Gunslinger
Septimus Bean-Something Lush
The Rhythm and the Cadence-In Lieu of Flowers
The Rhythm and the Cadence-Nooks and Crannies
My Blesséd Cadaver-Desolation Wilderness
My Blesséd Cadaver-Drifting Through Purgatory
My Blesséd Cadaver-La Mort du Fossoyeur
My Blesséd Cadaver-Silence the Machine
Mono on the Side-Catacombs
Sleep Walker-No.2
Sleep Walker-No.4

Wrong Number (My Blesséd Cadaver)
Pipe Bomb Coffee (parody)
The Human Glitch (The Rhythm and the Cadence)


Please contact Blue Harvest Records for purchasing info. All proceeds from the sale of this release will be donated to the Prelinger Archives.

Thursday, December 10, 2009

White Van Audio Scam

The first video for the newest Blue Harvest Records project: 'White Van Audio Scam' is for the song 'Brand Name Game'.

Footage from the public domain film 'Gateway to the Mind' (courtesy of archive.org) was cut up and restructured to create a 'Twin Peaks' meets 'The Velvet Underground' themed psychedelic freak out film.

Tuesday, December 01, 2009

White Van Audio Scam



'White Van Audio Scam' is Harsh/Glitch/Electronic music inspired by the white van audio sales scam of the Midwest and New England. The scam basically provides the illusion of high end electronics for "hot off of the truck" prices. When in reality, the merchandise is perfectly legitimate and legal...it is just of low Chinese quality. The scam utilizes brand names that sound similar to high end brands such as 'Genesis Media'. You can read more about this scam here.

This EP also has an accompanying 'Harsh Version' that was remixed by Joseph Boldensmith (Portland, Oregon) using the original Propellerhead 'Reason' loops and a seamless flow of Harsh noise from an Audible Disease DM-1 Dementia noise/synth generator.

Both releases are available as free downloads at the Blue Harvest Records site.

White Van Audio Scam (Free Download)
White Van Audio Scam-Harsh Version (Free Download)

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Monday, November 09, 2009

Red Herrings Compilation



Please check out the newest Blue Harvest Records release 'Red Herrings'. It is a compilation of 17 tracks from some of the most unique artists (both locally and internationally) that I have encountered thus far. This release is intended to draw the listener "further down the rabbit hole", as well as introduce new audiences to some great music.

On a side note: A "Red Herring" is an idiom referring to a device which intends to divert the audience from the truth or an item of significance.

This release includes the following artists:

Attica (Kent,Ohio)
Simeon Soul Charger (Akron, Ohio)
Chris Burkey (Richmond, Virginia)
HEINRICH XIII AND THE DEVILGRASS PICKERS (Wetterau Hessen, Germany)
Mail Myself to Thoreau (Northampton/Amherst, Massachusetts)
Lauren Hubert (Chicago, Illinois)
Long Walk Home (Chardon, Ohio
Matthew Anderson (Kent, Ohio)
Wagner &â Welles (Salzberg, Austria)
Pale Hollow (Cleveland, Ohio)
John Jacobs (Manchester, UK)
The Rhythm and the Cadence (Portland, Oregon)
Sweet Spot (Canton, Ohio)
Red Bear Moon (Cleveland, Ohio)
Apogee 13 (Kent, Ohio)
In Caves (Portland, Oregon)


Enjoy!

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Sunday, October 25, 2009

In Caves



'In Caves' is four new tracks of anthropologically inspired, ambient percussion, electro-acoustic chill out music. This effort is the latest collaboration between Michael Elam (Kent, Ohio) and Joseph Boldensmith (Portland, Oregon) and is now available as a free download as part of Blue Harvest Records "Free Music for the Recession" campaign.

The inspiration for this project came from the desire to reflect upon the ancestral memory we carry with us, as well as from a personal observation of a drum circle set around a VW Micro-bus during an outdoor festival. During this observation,'Techno Animal' blared from the vehicles stereo system while a group of hippies jammed along with hand drums. It left a lasting impact upon me, unfortunately...it took ten years to manifest :)

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Sunday, October 18, 2009

Mono on the Side-thump EP



'Mono on the Side-thump'is a 3 song EP released on both 7" vinyl and CDR mini (June 10, 2009). The artwork for this EP was created by Anna Pekar. It was recorded during the fall of 2007 as a college electronic media project. The opening track 'Catacombs' is available as a free download. The 7" and CDR mini are still for sale. To purchase one please contact us with either 'Mono on the Side' or 'Anna Pekar' in the subject line.

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Friday, October 16, 2009

Pipe Bomb Coffee

Quite possibly one of the most ridiculous things I have ever created. Enjoy the absurdity.

Sunday, October 04, 2009

Michael Elam-Melungeon



'Michael Elam-Melungeon'
is a four song EP that was composed, recorded, and mixed on September 3, 2009 (Yes...all in one day). The music was primarily written on the Appalachian Dulcimer and inspired by the Melungeon people of Eastern Tennessee. Their legacy has been forgotten in their isolation and separation from the development of the modern world.


'Michael Elam-Melungeon'
is now available as a free download as part of the Blue Harvest Records free music, netlabel transition.

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Monday, September 28, 2009

Complete Septimus Bean



In July of 2002, Septimus Bean released their 5 song release 'More Violet than Purple'. The album was later re-released in Deluxe form on iTunes and Amazon as a digital download (May 2008). The deluxe release had 12 songs, including several edits from 2005, and a series of choice live cuts compiled from what the band considered their best perfomances. The 2005 edits, all live shows, and the original 'More Violet than Purple' album can be downloaded here for free:

2005 edits




More Violet than Purple




Live from peabody's (5/26/2001)




Live from peabody's (3/2/2002)




Live from peabody's (9/22/2001)




Live from peabody's (4/20/2001)



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Sunday, September 13, 2009

My Blesséd Cadaver


My Blesséd Cadaver was a collaboration between Michael Elam and Jon Van Norstran. It was recorded between May-December 2006. This EP is a collection of dark ambient, synth driven pieces that are focused on the transitions from earthly to spiritual states while drawing inspiration from the concept of the grave as an agent of transcendence. It was released on May 25, 2008 on iTunes, Amazon, and as a limited edition CDR.

This EP, as well as an experimental track from May of 1997 called 'Intravertigo' is now available as a free download from Blue Harvest Records.

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Sunday, September 06, 2009

The Michael Elam Band-Sassafras



'The Michael Elam Band-Sassafras EP' is a collection of American Public Domain,and Irish Traditional music, as well as original Appalachian inspired themed compositions such as 'Doc Whitley', 'Elder Vance', and 'Carolina Creeper'. The artwork for the album was created by graphic artist Chris Eatherton.

'Sassafras' is now available as a free download all art included.

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Sunday, August 30, 2009

Michael Elam-Pennywhistle



'Michael Elam-Pennywhistle' is an Irish themed, instrumental EP, that was originally released on March 20, 2008 on iTunes, Amazon, and CDR. I have decided to give it away as a free download. Originally, the album was a compiliation of songs that were works in progress for quite some time. For example: 'Ulsterman's Remorse' was written in 1993 and other songs such as 'Shadow of Creation', 'Strained Relationship', and 'Locust', were written in 2003-2005 as part of the next stage of what would-be the Alt-Progressive/Grunge group Septimus Bean's last studio effort.

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Sunday, August 23, 2009

Michael Elam-Atomic Fireball



'Michael Elam-Atomic Fireball' is an all instrumental Nuclear/Atomic disaster themed, electro-acoustic concept album that is now available as a free download.

After posting the first video for this album ('Fallout')on YouTube, I received a message from TitusFlavius79 that instructed me to "type in google this three key words: nuclear target USA and then check the first three website hits , you will be informed about every nuclear danger and fallout on the USA if a nuclear war will be break out". I found the results fascinating. For increased paranoia...by all means...Try it!

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Sunday, August 16, 2009

Mono on the Side-Spoonfed Release



'Mono on the Side-Spoonfed'(BHR 00005) is now freely available as a digital download. Seven new tracks of local news media themed, electro-acoustic mania along with several other EP's and older releases are now available on the Free Downloads page at the Blue Harvest Records site. Just to hammer home the absurdity of actual local news; I have included a pie chart to break down the usage of time during an average newscast.


Network News Hour
Get Free Music at Blue Harvest Records

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Tuesday, August 04, 2009

Get a free download of 'The Lazarus Plain'






After years of selling the music of 'The Lazarus Plain', I have decided to set it free. Over the past 10 years, this piece has been released in numerous formats, used as a soundtrack for a dozen or more independent/art films, and also as intermission music during countless live performances. Anyone who wants a free copy can download a CD quality version from Archive.org


Follow the link for a free copy of The Lazarus Plain

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Wednesday, July 15, 2009

Mouth of the Holler (CDR)



After months of requests for a physical CD...I will finally compromise. The Michael Elam Band-Mouth of the Holler (CDR) will be available on a limited (100) basis. These CDR's can be purchased for $10 USD ($2 shipping) through paypal only. International orders should contact Blue Harvest Records directly for varying shipping costs.

The Michael Elam Band-Mouth of the Holler (CDR)



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Sunday, June 28, 2009

New Stuff Revisited

Mono on the Side was a college electronic media project that was initially supposed to be an experiment of sonic monotony using 8 bit technology, ethnic percussion, and (of course) Propellerheads' Reason program. However, as we evolve...the music evolves...and the current electronic community allows for projects such as 'Mono on the Side' to thrive despite logistical complications. Our newest tag line is as follows:

'Mono on the Side' is a cross-continental, electronic based jazz project that uses digital technology and highly processed acoustic instrumentation to deliver extremely individualized audio entertainment.

Ohhh...I forgot to mention that we are employing a tongue-in-cheek "local news media" theme. As I have recently discovered that regardless of where you live in the United States...the news graphics and promotional drops used by the Fox news network are almost identical with the exception of different names and faces that are systematically inserted.

Also...the new Michael Elam record (Atomic Fireball) is well on its way to completion. Stay tuned for more details...

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Thursday, June 11, 2009

Fallout

While continuing with the Nuclear Apocalypse disaster theme for the upcoming 'Atomic Fireball' release (11-25-09); Another video was created using public domain footage. The bulk of this video was taken from the US government produced instructional film 'About Fallout' (Courtesy of the Prelinger Archives).

Recently, I have almost completely discarded the concept of live performance. This rather rash decision was made as I have come to realize that this avenue (touring, gigging, live shows...etc) are a younger man's game and yield little or no long term benefits.

Although, I really have to admit...I am enjoying the digital media as a venue. The creation of unique music paired with public domain film has become my main artistic outlet (...with the exception of course being the occasional Moose club gig.)

Blue Harvest Records will however continue to release music via iTunes and Amazon. Only now the focus has shifted from an album based release with accompanying videos; to a visually based product that incorporates original music.

Q:"What the hell does that mean?"
A: It means more variety and more unique products... just wait!

Tuesday, May 19, 2009

In a Single Minute...

As usual, I obsess over a small concept or idea until it reaches fruition. However, this particular piece came together with the greatest of ease. It was if forces from beyond the visably present realm were guiding my every move. The atomic test footage literally fell into my hands along with the beat and the melody. I am aware that this footage has been used in a magnitude of other works, nonetheless, I feel as if it is appropriate and fitting for the haste and hurry depicted in the tempo of the song. Besides, who doesn't enjoy this imagry on some level? Remember, everything can change in a single minute.

'Michael Elam-In a Single Minute' (2009 Blue Harvest Records) will be available late 2009 on Michael Elam's 'Atomic Fireball' EP. The video features public domain footage from 'Atomic Alert (1951)', 'House in the Middle (1954)', 'Atomic Bomb (1946)', and 'Atomic Test-Operation Cue' (Courtesy of Archive.org and the Prelinger Archives.

Wednesday, April 29, 2009

Sleep Walker-No. 4



Some time ago, Joseph Boldensmith began a project that employed a unique process of collaboration. The project was called 'Sleep Walker' and involved most of the musicians that we knew at the time (a practice that is still commonplace at Blue Harvest Records almost a decade later).
Musicians were given a small piece of music to accompany with little or no direction. The end result was left up to the contributing musician's artistic integrity towards the piece. Overall, the project was mildly successful; which inspired Mr. Boldensmith to attempt this process again except this time with an emphasis on Spoken Word, Ethnic Instrumentation, and incorporating the usage of samples. This project became 'The Rhythm and the Cadence'.

Eventually, these two projects were released on Blue Harvest Records and came to be known as The Rhythm & The Cadence / Sleep Walker split release. The first run of both projects were packaged with DIY art on homespun CDR's and labeled "NOT TO BE SOLD" in a classic anti-capitalist manner. Only later did we decide to "go capitalist" by combining the efforts for purchase on Amazon and iTunes.

Initially, the albums were distributed in a gorilla marketing fashion. This included getting up really early to stuff Cleveland's 'Free Times' and 'Scene' magazines with CDR's (unbeknownst to their publishers). Another method of distribution was simply thumbtacking the album to the corkboards of record stores and coffee houses along side band flyers.

The video for 'Sleep Walker-No.4' was constructed from public domain footage from a film called 'American Look (1958)'. The video alludes to the presence of extraterrestrials living among us and assisting with the development of our technology. The phenomenon is known as 'Alien Engineering'.

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Saturday, April 25, 2009

Septimus Bean-The Gunslinger

Being a card carrying member of Generation X, I have always loved skateboard culture, the X-Games, and the videos that stemmed from this amazing social undercurrent. SK8 culture IS (and has always been ) "ahead of the curve", I hope to embrace the spirit of this movement with this mash-up of a 'Septimus Bean' song and some awesome street footage.

Inevitably, this creation was very natural for me to execute. I was VERY influenced by similar videos that the Beastie Boys have paired with their instrumental music (see the Sabotage home video for a prime example of this). Regardless, 'The Gunslinger' was always a favorite at Septimus Bean shows and the skate footage is awesome.

Enjoy!

Thursday, April 16, 2009

Something Lush

Over the last decade, I have become facinated with natural beauty and phenomenon. I have found myself drawn to the unique features of national parks and nature reserves. Most recently, I have become entralled by the bioluminescence phenomenon of many deep sea creatures (specifically the Jellyfish).

Apparently, Some species of Jellyfish emit a light frequency due to a chemical reaction within their bodies. In some cases, the Jellyfish have never been exposed to sunlight or any other light source except that of their own species bioluminescence. I have captured some of this footage from the "Rhythm and the Blue" exhibit at the Akron Zoo and cut it into a video for Septimus Bean's song 'Something Lush'

Although this phenomenon is not exclusive to inhabitants of the deep (as it can be seen in insects such as "lightning bugs"), It is quite impressive when displayed properly. Strangely enough, this reminds me of a biblical referance in which Jesus says " I am the light of the world; he who follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life." (John 8:12).

So...go forth my sea dwelling brothers and follow the jellyfish Jesus (j/k).

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Saturday, April 11, 2009

Elder Vance

The Michael Elam Band is set to release another CD this year.
The album will be called "Sassafras' and if you would like to hear a sample of what the music will sound like you can chech out this posted video. Thus far, the songs have been a cross-country endeavor; 2 members of the band (Jeremy Newberry and Scott Stevens) are living in Columbus, Ohio and the edits are being done by Joseph Boldensmith who now resides in Portland, Oregon. The distance between us is actually a blessing in disguise (as it yeilds more exotic shows in new and exciting locations :)

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Monday, April 06, 2009

NME!

The Michael Elam Band's new song 'Doc Whitley' was featured on the UK magazine NME-New Musical Express' website. According to the Almighty Wikipedia god:

"In 2008 the site won the BT Digital Music Award for Best Music Magazine as well as the Association of Online Publishers' Best Editorial Team Award, the British Society of Magazine Editors Website Editor of the Year Award and the Record Of The Day Award for Best Music Website."

Doc Whitley


The song was loosley based on the real life events of a physician and political figure in the rural appalachian town Ieager, West Virginia.Bluefield Daily Telegraph

Monday, February 16, 2009

Sneeze

I have often described certain music as "good for driving". Although, I am not sure that everyone knows what I am talking about. Good driving music either has such an overwhelming hook that the driver finds themselves flailing around his or her car like Alanis Morissette with a steering wheel or the scenario: " The Intellectual Reflection". This is a time when the driver is completely tuned into the road. At this point, the mechanics of the highway and the vehicle have become one on a zen plane. The music does not occupy the conscious mind.
The instrumental tracks from Chris Burkey's Cascadia album fall into the The Intellectual Reflection" Catogory.

The music video for Chris Burkey's "Sneeze" (2008 Blue Harvest Records). Featuring footage from Benjamin Klein's 2006 experimental film 'Hartford to Washington D.C.' (Courtesy of Archive.org) was crafted to simulate The Intellectual Reflection" without wasting precious gasoline.

Chris Burkey-Cascadia (entire album including 'Sneeze' is available for purchase on iTunes and Amazon)
Chris Burkey

Monday, January 26, 2009

St. Vitus' Fury

Way back at the turn of the century (aka 1999-2000), I had put together a project called 'The Lazarus Plain'. Originally, this project was meant to create a sonically driven trance that would symbolize the ceremonial concept with an underlying theme of religions (and their rituals) crossing paths in another "unseen" dimension.

It was an intense endeavor, one that involved approximately three years to complete. Most of that time was spent tweaking out unnecessary repetition. I did not want to the curse of monotony to pollute such a pure creation. It was a time in my life that I had grown quite tiresome of the repetition that so many other electronic projects fell victim to as a means to add quantifiable (yet illegitimate) content to their album length.

'The Lazarus Plain-St. Vitus' Fury’ features public domain footage from Honky Kong's 'Dolls of the Damned (2006)', Jerry White Jr.'s 'Tickets Please (2003)', Natasha Tsakos' 'Up Wake', and The Madagascar Institute's 'The Death Rattler at Robodock (2005)'. Courtesy of Archive.org and the 'Open Source Movies' community.

The music of The Lazarus Plain is only available for purchase (iTunes, Amazon) until June of 2009, after this date it will be destroyed as a symbolic sacrifice to consumate the spiritual awareness in which it was created.

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Friday, January 16, 2009

Drifting Through Purgatory

A few years ago, I was given a stack of old, black and white, horror films. Among these films was Herk Harvey's classic: 'Carnival of Souls'. It has become one of my favorites over the years, and one that I consider a true lost cinematic gem.

While working on the 'My Blesséd Cadaver' composition, I had returned to that stack of old films for some perspective on the advantages of working with less as a means to accomplish more. The minimalist ideology that was to be employed within the project saw fruition through this path. Therefore, you can imagine how excited I was to find out that the film ('Carnival of Souls') was now in the public domain and accessable for derivative works.

I pieced together some of the most intense parts of this film to achieve the truest feeling of "Purgatory" that was attainable without consulting John Edwards.

Enjoy

Monday, January 05, 2009

La Mort du Fossoyeur

I have always had some sort of facination with the Macabre, the mystic, and things that are old and somewhat forgotten. Given those interests, It would be only natural to use the grand daddy of all vampire films to impart life into an ambient piece of music written by 'My Blesséd Cadaver'.

The music was not only inspired by Carlos Schwabe's iconic (and ironic) portait 'La Mort du Fossoyeur', but it also shares the same name. 'La Mort du Fossoyeur' loosly translates into 'the death of the grave digger'. The translation alone is dark enough to spark the inspiration to create.

The portait (which is now in the public domain) served as a creative catalyst for Jon Van Norstan and myself during the creation of the 'My Blesséd Cadaver' debut release. Jon and myself intend to bring yet another 'My Blesséd Cadaver' concept album to light this year.

Friday, January 02, 2009

Conway's Irish Ale



Its that time of year again...

The Great Lakes Brewing Company will be shifting their gears to the next round of seasonal treats. The Jan-April months come bearing the gifts of Conway's Irish Ale...which happens to be one of my favorite brews. The breweries official website states that the beer was "Named after Patrick Conway, the grandfather of co-owners Patrick and Daniel Conway and a Cleveland policeman who directed traffic for 25 years near the brewery". Being of Scots-Irish ancestry; I am partial to beers that share a familiar ethnicity and this particular beer is most comparable to Smithwick's (prior to import). I make a point of patronizing the restaurant at the brewery at least once a month as the "on tap" and "pub exclusives" change.

According to the book Beer for Dummies, the The Great Lakes Brewing Company ranks among the top 10 in the country. Clevelanders are fortunate to have such a unique commodity at their finger tips. There is nothing greater than good food and an awesome brew to spark conversation and artistic creativity.

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Friday, December 12, 2008

From a Poison Thorn

Blue Harvest Records' decision to "go green" was heavily influenced by the documentaries 'An Inconvenient Truth’ and 'The Corporation'. Regardless of what the right and left wing media present as false or fact, the continued climate changes and the growing levels of consumer waste being produced can not be ignored. If we expect to sustain life on this planet for another century, everyone must do their part to reduce, reuse and recycle. The film 'From a Poison Thorn' is my personal attack on the accomplishments of mankind and its environmental consequences as an externality.

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Sunday, December 07, 2008

Meet Jeremy Newberry


Jeremy Newberry is quite possibly the strongest back beat in Columbus, Ohio. His ability to collaborate with others and perfect subtle nuances have allowed him to make a name for himself as both a band member and a session player.

He is most commonly known for the size of his kick drum, which is usually a giant 26 incher just like John Bonham used. While other drummers are experimenting with different stick sizes and odd time signatures; Jeremy is refinishing vintage drums and searching for tonal perfection.

Mr. Newberry is no rookie at the art of refinishing drums. It is a little known (and rarely touted) fact that He was once employed by the Ludwig Drum Company in Monroe, North Carolina. Jeremy is quite possibly the most realistic and modest man that I have ever met; it is an honor to know him and an even greater pleasure to have him on board with the Blue Harvest Records creative collective.

Jeremy is currently a member of The Michael Elam Band, Slaves of Shiva and the Akron based math rock trio No Robot.

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Wednesday, December 03, 2008

Pile of Bones

'Pile of Bone' is probably my favorite song from Chris Burkey's 'Cascadia' CD. Since it went live on iTunes a couple of weeks ago (11-25-08), I have found myself listening to it more often than not.

Given the lyrical content and sinister tone of the song; I felt it was appropriate to craft a dark and disturbing tale of murder under unknown circumstances from some of the documentary footage and old commercials that are available on the Prelinger Archives. I hope you enjoy this mash up.

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Sunday, November 30, 2008

Damir - Business (Atomic America)

The Toronto based mash up artist known as Brian Mota (or Nervous96) has done it again. This time with the politically charged, Toronto based DJ/ Alt-Rapper Damir and his song "Buisiness'. Please check out both of these artists, they are well worth your time.

For those of you who are following this epic international adventure, you already know that Brian crafted an awesome video for The Michael Elam Band roughly a year ago. Since then, I have become inspired to basically mimic his practice of mashing up public domain footage from the Prelinger Archives with some of the Blue Harvest Records music.

It is amazing how given the same resources (archive.org), different artists can create a dramatically different product.

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Friday, November 28, 2008

Meet Scott Stevens




I have known Scott Stevens for about 11 years, I first met him around 1997 in Columbus, Ohio. Scott and I have both taken turns playing in some of the same bands, It was only natural to eventually collaborate on a project. I am very thankful that he wanted to be part of the Blue Harvest Records Team.

On a side note, Scott Stevens, Jeremy Newberry and myself are part of what I like to refer to as the "St. Patrick's Day Phenomenon". I will explain; Blue Harvest Records was started on St. Patrick's Day in 1997, the first full rehearsal for The Michael Elam Band was held on St. Patrick's Day in 2007 and a year later we would play one of the biggest (and most unique)events of my musical career on St. Patrick's Day. For whatever reason, the significance of this date keeps bearing notable occurrences. Who knows... maybe this is a sign that the three of us should drive the snakes out of Appalachia or maybe open an Irish bar (I'm leaning toward the latter). Hmmm...I think that might be the plan this year!

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Wednesday, November 26, 2008

Carey Burtt


Every so often, I come across something that sends me for a loop. It is usually something that others have overlooked or simply do not understand, and occasionally it is something that other people just downright don't have the sick and twisted sense of humor that I possess to appreciate such a discovery.

This time around it is film artist and musician Carey Burtt. He is my newest inspiration and hero of the day. His work makes me want to create more films and score them with my own music...and maybe start a cult. I had a really difficult time finding out any information about this mysterious genius.


'The Psychotic Odyssey of Richard Chase'


'Mind Control Made Easy'


A Forked World


Most recently, Carey Burtt worked with Spike Priggen on his music video "I Know Everything," which features clips from "Guyana Tragedy: The Story of Jim Jones."

The short film 'Mind Control Made Easy'is what drew me into Burtt's world of twisted humor and now as I reflect it seems that there has been a fascination with cults and social undercurrents throughout the body of Burtt's work.

Please check out his films, They are far more cerebral than the standard Internet fodder that plagues our daily lives:

http://www.youtube.com/user/KingHotPants

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Tuesday, November 25, 2008

New Release-Cascadia



We are proud to announce that Chris Burkey's latest creative effort 'Cascadia' is now available as an environmentally friendly digital download on Amazon , Rhapsody and Chris Burkey. Cascadia is a collection of solo material that Chris has been compiling for the last few years. This release is unique in the sense that it cuts across genres and blends both production styles and musical concepts from a plethora of sources. Cascadia is a true and honest manifestation of a creative endeavor that has come to fruition in a very unique and palatable manner. We are very proud of this effort and hope that you enjoy it as
well.

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Wednesday, November 19, 2008

Desolation Wilderness

I am coming to realize that I may obtain a great deal of inspiration from parks and nature. A while back, I worked with the ambient musician Jon Van Norstran in the project My Blesséd Cadaver. The overall concept for this album was to "focus on the transitions from earthly to spiritual states while drawing inspiration from the concept of the grave as an agent of transcendence". I think that we achieved our goal, but I personally gained some unique perspective on the role of nature as an "agent of transcendence".

Jon and I both share a passion for things that are just left alone. Specifically, the Desolation Wilderness nature reserve; its solitude and isolation (as well as virgin beauty) served as the inspiration for an ambient soundscape bearing the same name.

This video was crafted with time-lapse photography from the 1957 documentary 'Mystery of Time' produced by the infamous Moody Institute of Science. The institute was best known for its "Sermons from Science" by Dr. Irwin Moon.

Basically, Dr. Irwin Moon drew connections between religion and science with the idea of a master plan by a higher power; maybe like an evolution meets Adam and Eve ideology. Realistically, this film was used as a vehicle to lure the logical science-minded citizen into the realm of Christianity.

Regardless, the film and the concept of this ideology are fascinating.


Enjoy!

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