How can impressions of flying animals be sonically manifested? A growing thought, planted into the mind of Vordergrundmusik’s latest recruit, led him to experiment by crafting an EP with a concept in mind.

In “Beasts & Butterflies”, ambisonic-like elements resemble counterpart butterflies, rushing through space, being chased by a gnarling, growling lead beast. The two entities behave rather vigorously, matching the rhythmic and melodic foundation they reside on.

Following the eclectic experience, the EP journeys into the realm of woods and birds nesting in the crowns of trees. Samples of whistling imitate the sound of a robin, spreading its beautiful song through the warm, summerly air. Beneath lie piano arpeggios and old-school vocals, all sitting on top of the laid-back groove of “Rotkehlchen."

At the peak of the mountain, cries of “The Red-Tailed Hawk” echo across the valley as it readies itself to dive deep through the clear air. Upon descent, it cries, flapping its wings to the rhythm of the recorded piano, until its flight levels: the sky-blue lake, reflecting the sunlight with thousands of glittering sparkles, lies beneath. Gliding just above the shimmering water, the hawk slows down before it passes the cliff, after which, with growing intensity, it continues to descend rapidly towards the valley…

"Hawk Screech Valley" Sample recorded by Mike Koenig