Ertha by Tawiah + Al Moore
‘Ertha’ is a concept album, created collaboratively through a process of storytelling and musical interpretation. Through a series of original writings and poems Al tells a story of the human journey as one of “getting lost in order to be found”, suggesting that, despite unavoidable suffering, there is great hope in this; it is by navigating darkness that we find light. Tawiah composed music in response to these writings. The album depicts Ertha’s life from birth to death; her journey represents that of the individual and the collective, we also hear from the ever present, objective Universe.
The pair describe the process as akin to an actor and director working with a script, and the outcome a cohesive musical story as opposed to simply tracks on an album. Ertha was written and recorded at their home during the Covid19 lockdowns, it was agreed that the raw first draft nature of the home recordings is part of Ertha’s story and charm. Co-produced by Jodi Milliner (Kano, Sam Smith), mixed by Blue May (Kano, Joy Crookes) and mastered by Matt Colton (Christine and the Queens, James Blake). The album also features collaborations with Matthew Kofi Waldren (Welsh National Opera, Opera North) and Lydia Marchione (English National Opera).
Tracklist
| 1. | Universe I | 3:13 |
| 2. | Birth | 3:32 |
| 3. | Child | 3:06 |
| 4. | Universe II | 0:55 |
| 5. | Youth | 3:43 |
| 6. | Adult | 3:03 |
| 7. | Universe III | 0:55 |
| 8. | Elder | 4:21 |
| 9. | Death | 4:10 |
| 10. | Universe IV | 1:49 |
