Concret(e^x) Jungles

Concret(e^x) Jungles is an expansive reinterpretation of a word known by many as a way to describe bustling urban cities. The mathematical expression, ex (symbolizing exponential and unchecked expansion) references the rapid and seemingly unstoppable pace of urban development and the inevitable depletion of our natural resources. This hybrid title prepares the listener for a sound world in which concrete and steel aggressively overtake the lush ecosystems that once thrived beneath them.

I wanted this to be a piece that explores as many sound worlds as possible, as to portray the many aspects of living within a dystopian urban hellscape. You will hear prepared vibraphone with unconventional and eerie sounding extended techniques, gestures of auxiliary/industrial found items that provide a frantic and relentless rhythmic foundation, and unconventional tonal language within the mallet percussion instruments. The virtuosic, technical and ever-changing nature of the keyboard writing contributes to the exponentially forward moving timbre that I am attempting to portray.

A special thank you to Blue Door Percussion for their enthusiasm and assistance in the creation of this work.

I hope you enjoy.

Recorded by Blue Door Percussion, based in Austin TX.