MUSIC
Released
"Healing" is based around Francis' struggles with internal psychological battles. The writing of Healing stemmed from Francis' first experience of an anxiety attack. This experience, although traumatic, was thoroughly enlightening. By realising that a negative, judgemental inner dialogue was always present with Francis, he could recognise these thoughts as restrictive to his true self and begin to fight against them.
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The inspiration behind "Incredulity" stems from Francis' experience of meeting a homeless man named Richard. Throughout the song, Francis explores where society went wrong and why someone so intelligent could be so unfortunate. Musically, it possesses euphoric melodies coupled with strong dance backbeats creating a juxtaposition between dark societal themes and the government's nonchallant attitude.
'Dustcoat' is an acoustic ballad surrounding the themes of existentialism and tranquility. Throughout the song, Francis tackles the mental tension between wanting to take on responsibility for solving global inequality whilst still understanding how harmful the internalisation of these themes can be. Moreover, musically "Dustcoat" helps listeners not to blame themselves for issues that have stemmed from corporate greed and global structures.
"Your Secret" is based on Francis' experiences with being used as an experiment for people's sexual exploration. It tells a story of heartbreak as love and care is given to Francis and taken away within moments. This cyclical nature is reflected heavily through vulnerable lyrics and soft melodic lines. It's minimal production creates space for the listener and gives an opportunity for personal reflection whilst listening.
Unreleased
Braces
"Braces" focuses on Francis' experience of time and long-term happiness. The writing of "Braces" came about before Francis spent a summer travelling the USA. The lyrics reflect a need for individual growth and uncover the metaphors behind patience and perfection. Sonically, "Braces" sits in the classic Indie Rock genre with upbeat live sounds and angellic vocal lines.
Sound Design
Submarine
"Submarine" came to fruition as Francis was given the task by a lecturer to create a complete track using only three instrument lines provided as audio files (synth, piano and guitar). This gave Francis the opportunity to showcase his interest and talent in sampling. Every part of "Submarine is made from said audio files, including percussion. Using EQ, Quick Sampler and Delay plug-ins, Francis created "Submarine" from start to finish in one night from his laptop.
My Sunken Frame
"My Sunken Frame" displays Francis' experimentation with reverb as a melodic tool. The track plays with identical vocal lines recorded in different places, such as a bathroom, a hallway, a sink, and a bedroom. Through the use of fading and layering, Francis was able to create the illusion of several different spaces with one simple vocal line. "My Sunken Frame" draws inspiration from traditional American Folk Music, in which a capella is utilised heavily.
Demonic Torment
"Demonic Torment" was created to as a "performance with electronics" piece. The concept was to depict sexual violence within a track using only noises created from the body. When creating this piece, Francis wanted to make the listener feel as uncomfortable as possible, in an attempt to translate the horror of sexual violence within relationships. By manipulating and transposing waveforms, Francis created "Demonic Torment", achieving an 88% mark.
Purple Was Once Blue
"Purple Was Once Blue" presents ideas around nature and modernity. With heavy use of sampling, Francis contrasts natural sounds (birdsong) with modern synthesis basslines. The track seeks to mix the two aspects of the universe that feel unnatural to be in such close proximity. To accommodate such large themes, the instrumental lines maintain a level of minimalism to allow the experimental sampling take the foreground.