ColourMeIn_sam by Richard F. Jackson (fka JacksorJacksor)

"ColourMeIn" is the third track in my song a month ("_sam") cycle. It was written and recorded in March 2024.

After a rough winter at the hands of seasonal affective disorder (SAD), March was truly the first month of my year. While this song was directly inspired by SAD, I wanted to describe a less specific experience - that of being trapped in a reoccuring negative state, which you can know is coming but it still hits you, and finally, eventually, finding release and capacity.

The lyrics were inspired by and dedicated to the spoken word poets from the Flutenanny events, held at The Flute and Tankard, Cardiff. Flutenanny is an unplugged open mic and has become my favourite regular event to perform at. The event on 1st March saw a line-up alternating between musician - poet. When writing the lyrics for this month's song I wanted to try to capture my appreciation for the that event. More of that sort of thing please.

The recording is largely built around multiple piano parts, mostly recorded at double speed then slowed down or recorded at half speed then sped up. I found that these speed changes, which then pitched the notes down or up an octave respectively, created textures that could represent the sluggish, "just getting through the day" sense that carries me through the darker seasons. As the song progresses, more instruments are added (literal "colours"), until the final section's constantly ascending organ chords aim to provide the release that I've found March has provided for me.

If this resonates with your good self, I hope you're able to find your light.

"ColourMeIn" is released on 5th April 2024 on Bandcamp and other streaming services.

Attempting to be a net positive.

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