We are living through a big change

 

The way we live in America has changed forever with the spread of Covid-19. Shelter-in-Place orders have been issued in most states. Most businesses are closed. Those who are lucky enough to work from home, myself included, remain indoors during the work week. It's a big change in daily life that's going to take some time to process.

 

Living in Massachusetts, we are lucky enough to still have access to some parks and state-managed conservation land. Practicing social distancing is key if you choose to visit one of these spots. If you arrive and the parking lot is full, practice common sense and find somewhere less crowded. Amanda and I have taken to the woods each weekend since the initial shut down began. We visited spots that normally have no other people on the trail, and found them a little crowded. Nothing else is open, so I'm not surprised. We just need to be mindful when passing others on the trail, and it's not a big deal. 

 

Field Recordings

 

While working from home, I'm taking the opportunity to explore new music. After a few weeks of listening while I work, I found that I'm particularly found of artists who use field recordings. I enjoy putting them on because it fills the room with sound from the outdoors. It helps me get through the day, and stay on task. I was recently inspired by these artists to make my own field recordings while spending time outside.

 

Shelter Tapes

 

I decided to give field recording a try, and started a new project called Shelter Tapes. The project consists of field recordings with an accompanying photo essay for each recording. To make the work accessible,  I set up a SoundCloud page for each installment. The photography will live here and on social, with a link to the SoundCloud page. 

 

I hope the project gives the viewer a break. Lately, I have felt the easy access to news and communication with friends and family to be overwhelming at times. I consider myself lucky that I can still go outside on the weekends (and that I still have a job). Hiking gives me time to unwind and decompress from the week. I enjoy listening to water flowing or birds singing. It grounds me. I want to bring those sounds to headphones or stereos to help provide a break in the constant communication stream we're all currently standing in right now. 

 

The first installment of Shelter Tapes will be out soon. Stay tuned.