Activity is quite intense and somewhat timeless in Paris at the moment following the famous Olympic Games ceremony. It was quite a grand event, though I have one complaint: not being able to get as close as I would have liked. Access was reserved for those who purchased tickets at exorbitant prices, which is understandable since this is a historic event.
I am starting to publish more details about my next album, "Back to Iram," which will be released at the end of October. The musical process involved long recording sessions with modular synthesizers. After that, I export everything into the latest version of Ableton, where I rework the sounds, explore unexpected possibilities, and compose melodies with very few reference points. However, there is always a tendency to structure the music into something new yet reminiscent of the ancient past.
This album mixes a lot of MIDI work with some sounds that have been in my archives over the past three years. I will also take advantage of my upcoming trip to Trogir, Croatia, in August to record new field sounds. I use a similar technique as I did for the album "L'Ange des 6 Eaux," where exported and composed MIDI are arranged with other synthesizer sounds not present in the original recordings.
I use new functions in Ableton, including Simpler, to work on rhythms. It's important that the rhythms have a perfect sound. Even something very binary can work if the texture is good, allowing the piece to last up to 10 minutes. In terms of structure, techniques used in Indian music and ragas will be predominant. I have about forty song lyrics, which are 20% finished, structured in the form of ghazal poetry long used by Sufis.
I will likely use a Roland SMP for several aspects and employ it in upcoming live concerts in 2025. The modular system I use includes the same modules I have had since early 2024. It remains an immense pleasure to use, even for mistakes or trivial things, as I can now sample and reshape them. This allows me to replay them identically with the sampler, but I will need a second person for certain tasks, and it's always more enjoyable to play with someone else.
I continue exploring the path to God through Sufism, particularly Ghazali. I will also start studying "The Secret of the Golden Flower," an esoteric Chinese yoga text, translated by Wilhelm and commissioned by Carl Jung.
This two-week trip to Croatia will be ideal in the ancient city of Trogir with its Byzantine history. I am eager to be there and work diligently and conscientiously.
Here is the press release of this forthcoming album:
Album Presentation: "Back to Iram" by Kentin Jivek
Kentin Jivek invites you on a mystical journey with his new album "Back to Iram", a sonic exploration of the legendary and lost city of Iram. Known in ancient tales as the City of Pillars, Iram serves as the backdrop for a spiritual and introspective quest. Each track of this album narrates a step in the journey through this mythical city, culminating in the quest for the ultimate light – a metaphor for the search for divinity.
Album Features
Instruments and Sounds: "Back to Iram" skillfully blends the sounds of modular synthesizers and guitar, creating an ambiance that is both modern and timeless. Samples enhance the modular sequences, adding unique and immersive sound textures.
Lyrics and Structure: The lyrics are inspired by Sufi ghazal, a form of mystical and devotional poetry, while the musical structures evoke Indian raga, bringing a profound and complex spiritual dimension.
Artist's Journey
Since his debut, Kentin Jivek has consistently fused different sonic and cultural realms. With an eclectic discography and a passion for sound experimentation, he has explored various themes, from urban legends to personal introspections. "Back to Iram" is the culmination of this approach, a synthesis of his journey and influences, offering an immersive and transcendent experience.
This album is an invitation to get lost and find oneself in the ruins of Iram, through compositions that speak to the heart and soul. "Back to Iram" is not just an album, it is a unique sensory and spiritual experience.
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