"Preserving Melodies: A Solar-Powered Musical Journey"
Join Michael Cloud Duguay on an extraordinary musical adventure with the release of his new album, Kingdom Come, Kingdom Go, set to arrive on July 10th via Watch That Ends The Night records. This captivating project delves into the rich world of church organs from seven historic churches across Newfoundland, capturing the unique sounds and stories of each instrument. The album’s first single, “Winterhouse,” featuring Cormac Culkeen of Scions, is a poignant introduction to the immersive soundscape Duguay has crafted.
Duguay’s journey began with over a year of research and connections with various outport churches, culminating in a nine-day recording excursion. Using a solar-powered mobile studio known as The Scamper—converted from a 1970s RV—Duguay and his team traveled over 1,500 kilometers across this picturesque province. Their mission was not only to record the distinctive sounds of each organ but to encapsulate the social and cultural significance that these instruments hold within their communities.
What makes Kingdom Come, Kingdom Go particularly compelling is its approach to the church organ. Rather than a conventional organ music album, it serves as an abstract musical documentary that interweaves sound with the geographical and historic context of Newfoundland. Each church organ they encountered had its unique story, from recently renovated pieces with modern technology to a forgotten organ buried beneath debris, revealing the rich tapestry of history these instruments embody.
The lead single “Winterhouse,” recorded using the organ from the Memorial United Church in Bonavista, showcases Duguay’s innovative sound design. The organ’s warm drone accompanies Culkeen’s evocative vocals, reminiscent of ancient traditions, while Andrew MacKelvie’s saxophones intricately weave through the composition. The result is a majestic yet intimate piece that pushes sonic boundaries and invites listeners into a world where sound meets memory and place.
In addition to the album recording, Duguay and his collaborators documented each organ to create virtual sound replicas. These samples will eventually be made available to the public, allowing other musicians to experience and utilize the captivating sounds of these historic instruments.
Unfolding over the course of the album, listeners are invited on a meditative journey encompassing themes of community, spirituality, and the passage of time. The blend of ambient elements, free improvisation, and sacred music showcases Duguay’s artistic vision, reflecting both personal and collective narratives. Throught out the creation process, his passion for music acts as a powerful vehicle for exploring difficult themes, reaffirming the significance of sound in personal and communal histories.
Duguay’s commitment to sustainability and collaboration, set against a backdrop of personal resilience, makes this project truly inspiring. Following his challenging journey through mental health and personal struggles, Duguay has emerged with a renewed spirit and an eagerness to explore new artistic territories. Through his innovative approach, he breathes new life into the fading sounds of church organs, preserving them for future generations while also inviting the audience into a unique auditory experience.
Mark your calendars for July 10th, and prepare to immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Kingdom Come, Kingdom Go. Pre-order the album now to ensure you don’t miss this remarkable fusion of history, sound, and humanity.
