Requiem For Alan
Today, I am both excited and moved to present to you ‘Requiem (For Alan),’ a smooth and jazzy instrumental from THISISGRAEME Music. As you may have guessed from the title, the essence of ‘Requiem For Alan’ is underpinned by a narrative that extends beyond the realm of music.
Alan and I had discussed doing some recording together, but time and distance were not on our side. This track commemorates the passing of my friend, whose spirit and memories have inspired this creation. With every note played and every rhythm crafted, this piece seeks to honour his legacy, hoping to touch your hearts and resonate with your souls in a meaningful way.
It is my deepest hope that this track will bring a sense of peace, reflection, and connection to all who listen, especially those who knew Alan. Thank you for being part of this special moment and for allowing Alan’s spirit to live on through the universal language of music.
Listen to Requiem For Alan
On Spotify below or here on YouTube
Inside Requiem For Alan
I’m aiming for “Requiem For Alan” to strike a beautiful balance between smooth, contemporary, and Latin jazz, all while weaving in elements of ambient and electronic dance music. This track, clocking in at a neat 3 minutes and 52 seconds, moves to the rhythm of 120 BPM in the key of C major, offering an auditory experience that’s hopefully as relaxing as it is engaging.
At its core, the song spans a wide genre spectrum but remains firmly anchored in the world of jazz, especially its more mellow and laid-back variants. The vibe is predominantly chill, with a certain allure and tranquility, setting the stage for an emotionally resonant journey with moments of both calm and dynamic shifts. Interestingly, despite its chill vibe, the track has instances of high energy, injecting moments of intensity that enrich the listening experience.
Instrument-wise, “Requiem For Alan” is layered and rich. The bass guitar and percussion create a solid rhythmic base, while the piano and synth weave a continuous melodic story. It’s a track without vocals, allowing the instruments themselves to express the emotional depth and narrative, highlighting its ambient jazz characteristics.
In summary, this track navigates through various shades of jazz and beyond, hopefully offering a listening experience that’s both soothing and thought-provoking. Its unique blend of genres and instrumental richness, coupled with the emotions it conjures, makes it an ideal backdrop for moments of focus, relaxation, or closeness.
For me, “Requiem For Alan” is a celebration of both the life of a friend as well as both traditional and contemporary musical elements, resonating with listeners looking for something genuinely distinctive.
The Runes on the Cover Art
Alan was a master of more than a few esoteric traditions, and his knowledge of ancient runes and their meanings was unparalleled. For this reason, You’ll notice a collection of runes from the Elder Futhark in the cover art.
I often leave easter eggs in my artwork (and sometimes the songs), which I’m not usually inclined to explain but this time I’ll make an exception. I’m not sure if I can articulate their symbolism as well as my friend could have, but their meanings are something like this:
Starting with Algiz (ᛉ), the rune of protection conjures an aura of safety, almost as if ensuring a guarded passage for Alan’s soul into the next realm. This resonates with the protective embrace we hope our loved ones feel even after they leave us. It’s a visual emblem of the sanctuary we wish to provide them through our memories and tributes.
Eihwaz (ᛇ) follows, a symbol of the Yew tree’s deep roots in life and death, mirroring the transformative journey of the soul through the music. Its presence on the cover hints at the enduring connection between the past, present, and future, an enduring bridge that music provides between worlds seen and unseen.
Raidho (ᚱ), with its connotations of travel and rhythm, fits seamlessly into the musical narrative. As it speaks to the soul’s journey and the progression of life, it’s perhaps as if each note in the song marks a step along this profound path, embracing change and transition with each beat.
Dagaz (ᛞ) adds an optimistic touch to the collection. It’s the light at the end of the tunnel, the breaking dawn after a long night. The rune promises hope, a fitting reminder that every end has its new beginning, a comforting thought that the cover art subtly whispers to its beholders.
Gebo (ᚷ), representing gifts and partnerships, is especially poignant. Alan’s contributions to the world and to those who knew him are irreplaceable gifts that continue to resonate. This rune stands as a testament to the exchange between listener and creator, between memory and music, where the act of remembering itself is a sacred offering.
Lastly, Isa (ᛁ) instills a moment of stillness and reflection. Its presence on the cover is an invitation to pause, to reflect, to embrace the peace of memory. It’s a visual pause in the melody, a held breath in the continuum of life, echoing the stillness that follows the final note of your requiem.
With these runes, I hope that the cover art speaks a language as old as time, connecting the dots between history, emotion, and music… a multi-sensory homage to Alan’s memory. Each rune weaves a deeper meaning into the requiem, making it not just a song, but a narrative, a journey, a protective spell cast in honour of a cherished soul.
Embarking on a Musical Odyssey: Crafting a Concept Album Inspired by the Hero’s Journey
Join me, THISISGRAEME, on an enthralling voyage as I weave a tapestry of sound inspired by the Hero’s Journey, a timeless narrative that has captivated storytellers for eons. This concept album is a homage to the phases of personal evolution and transformation, echoing through each note and melody.
Dive into the Soundscape of a Storyteller
Each track in this ambitious project is more than just a song; it’s a chapter in a grand, musical saga. From the exhilarating ‘Call to Adventure’ to the triumphant ‘Return’, journey with me through soundscapes that narrate each pivotal moment of the Hero’s Journey.
Stay Connected and Never Miss a Beat
As I delve deeper into this creative odyssey, I invite you to join me. Follow me on Spotify and Instagram to get a front-row seat to this evolving adventure. Subscribe to my YouTube channel for exclusive glimpses and ensure you’re always in tune with my latest releases.
Your support for independent music is invaluable. A heartfelt thank you for lending your ears and hearts to this journey. Let’s unravel this story together, one track at a time
Discover new music
If you like this track you might also like these ones also by THISISGRAEME Music:
- Technological System Failure on Spotify below or here on YouTube.
- Nesoi’s Isthmus on Spotify or here on YouTube
20 Albums in 20 Years: Join THISISGRAEME’s Musical Voyage
I’m on a mission to write and record 20 original albums in the next 20 years. It’s bold, it’s ambitious, and it’s happening now. Each album in this journey will capture a unique stage of my artistic evolution, reflecting my experiences and growth as an artist.
Be Part of the Journey
Your support is vital. By joining me on this musical odyssey, you’re not just a listener; you’re an integral part of the story each album tells.
Listen, Experience, and Be Inspired
I invite you to dive into the albums I’ve released so far. Each one is a step in this 20-year journey and a piece of my heart and soul. Listen, let the music resonate with you, and maybe, find a spark of inspiration for your own journey.
Explore the Albums Below
Ready to embark on this musical adventure? Scroll down and immerse yourself in the sounds that mark the beginning of this 20-year voyage. Listen to one, listen to them all, and be part of this unfolding story.
Album 5/20 – Hermes Exit, Vol.1
On Spotify or here on YouTube
Album 4/20 – The Mixer is the Elixir
On Spotify or here on YouTube
Album 3/20 – Experiments Including Friends
On Spotify or here on YouTube
Album 2/20 – Elevator Music for the 0.01%
On Spotify or here on YouTube
Album 1/20 – Before the Comet (BTC)
On Spotify or here on YouTube
More Than Music: Dive Into the Creative Process with THISISGRAEME
Music is just the beginning. Beyond the beats and melodies, I’m excited to share the stories and insights from behind the scenes. With a heart for teaching and sharing, I’m keen to take you on a journey that’s not just about tunes but also about learning and growing together.
Join the Creative Exploration:
Whether it’s tips on songwriting, studio tales, or life lessons learned along the way, I’m all about sharing the wisdom gathered from this musical path. Expect a blend of melody and mentorship as we navigate this artistic adventure.
A Big Cheers to You
Your support means the world to me. It’s what fuels this journey. So, stay tuned – more music, more stories, and more learning are on the way. Your involvement in this journey is a vital part of its magic, and I can’t wait to share what’s next.
Dive into the THISISGRAEME Soundscape: Check out My Discography
Keen to explore more of my musical universe? If you’ve found a beat or melody that resonates with you, I’d love for you to visit my music page. It’s a kaleidoscope of my musical journey, featuring a variety of my compositions, available on multiple platforms. So why not take the plunge and discover the breadth of my creative world?
How You Can Be Part of the THISISGRAEME Music Journey
- FOLLOW on Spotify: Keen to be the first to groove to my new beats? Simply hit ‘Follow’ on my Spotify artist profile. You’ll stay in the loop with all my latest tracks and musical escapades. Plus, your follow goes a long way in boosting my visibility in the vibrant world of music.
- SUBSCRIBE on Youtube: Dive deeper into my musical universe with exclusive content, including music videos, potential live gigs, and behind-the-scenes peeks. Subscribing to my YouTube channel is a brilliant way to support and expand my digital footprint.
- SHARE on social media: Got a favourite tune from my collection? Share the vibe with your friends on social media! Each share opens a door to new listeners and is a fantastic way to spread the love for independent music.
- ADD to playlists: Crafting your own playlists on Spotify or YouTube? I’d be chuffed if you included my tracks. This not only personalises your music experience but also enhances the discoverability of my songs, leading new fans to my music.
- STREAM on Preferred platforms: Whether you’re a fan of Spotify, Apple Music, or other streaming services, every play matters immensely. Stream ‘TITLE’ and let each beat pulse through the journey of THISISGRAEME Music, contributing significantly to its growth.
About THISISGRAEME: The Musical Alchemist from New Zealand
Say hello to Graeme Smith, the creative force behind THISISGRAEME. From the heart of New Zealand, I’m more than just a musician – I’m a crafter of sonic adventures. My music is a vibrant tapestry, melding the nostalgic echoes of vintage synthesizers with the diverse rhythms of world music, the serene flow of ambient tunes, the energy of rock and roll, and the dynamic beats of drum and bass.
Right now, I’m pouring my passion into a mammoth task: creating and releasing 20 original albums over the next 20 years. It’s a bold challenge in today’s streaming world, especially for an independent artist, but my commitment to sharing my musical stories globally is steadfast. A massive thank you to all my listeners and supporters around the world – your encouragement fuels this ambitious journey