"Michael Cloud Duguay's New Sonic Journey: Kingdom Come, Kingdom Go"
Michael Cloud Duguay has launched his new album Kingdom Come, Kingdom Go through his label, Watch That Ends the Night Records. This ambitious project takes listeners on a captivating journey across Newfoundland, where Duguay captures the sounds of seven unique historic church organs, recorded with a solar-powered mobile studio built into a renovated 1970s RV.
The album is the culmination of over a year of meticulous planning and research, followed by a nine-day adventure covering over 1,500 kilometers. Each piece explores the connection between the organ’s sound and the church’s history, resulting in a work that transcends traditional organ music to become an abstract auditory documentary. Critics have praised the album for its evocative soundscapes and communal narratives, with remarks highlighting its elegance and innovative approach.
Duguay’s approach to the project was heavily influenced by his interviews with local congregations, wardens, and ministers. These informal conversations, integrated into the album’s sonic composition, shed light on the evolving organ culture, the decline of congregations, and the personal histories intertwined with these significant instruments. The diversity of each organ’s story, from modern electronic enhancements to those that have lain dormant for a century, adds depth to the album’s sound.
Featured alongside Duguay on the album are various talented contributors, including Andrew MacKelvie, who not only plays multiple instruments but also composed some of the tracks. Other guest musicians include Newfoundland fiddler Maria Peddle and Cormac Culkeen of Scions, weaving a rich tapestry of sounds reflective of the regions visited during their travels.
One highlight of the album is the closing piece featuring the voice of 90-year-old retired church organist Mary Tucker, whose interview adds a personal touch to the overarching themes of community and memory. The album’s blend of sacred music, sound art, and acoustic techniques invites listeners to engage with the history and significance of the spaces Duguay explored.
Duguay’s exploration of sustainable recording methods aligns with his commitment to fostering experimentalism and collaboration through his label, launched in 2024. This new venture aims to maintain a community-minded focus while encouraging unique artistic expressions beyond traditional genre boundaries.
Kingdom Come, Kingdom Go promises to be an intriguing experience that reflects not just on music but also on the intricate relationship between culture, geography, and spirituality. The album is now available for listening and purchase, offering an innovative auditory experience that captures the essence of Newfoundland’s rich musical heritage.
To dive into Michael Cloud Duguay’s latest work, check out Kingdom Come, Kingdom Go, available now for streaming and download. Experience the intersection of sound, history, and community, brought forth by one of Canada’s most compelling contemporary musicians.
