The Power of Nature and Creative Rituals: A Conversation with SunnO)))
In a world often dominated by urban landscapes and digital distractions, the story of SunnO))) and their deep connection to nature serves as a refreshing reminder of the power of the outdoors. This drone metal duo, comprised of Greg Anderson and Stephen O'Malley, has an intriguing relationship with hiking and the natural world, which has not only influenced their music but also their creative process.
The Creative Spark
For Anderson, the pandemic provided an unexpected opportunity to reconnect with nature. He realized that amidst life's chaos, one must make time for the outdoors, a realization that led to a renewed appreciation for hiking and the fresh air. O'Malley, on the other hand, has a long-standing relationship with the mountains, especially the Steinernes Meer range in Austria, where he found solace and a place for contemplation. This love for walking and hiking has grown into a regular practice, a ritual that brings mental well-being and a deeper connection to the environment.
Megalithic Landscapes and Spiritual Experiences
O'Malley's introduction to megalithic landscapes, thanks to his friend Julian Cope, opened a new dimension to his walking experiences. Exploring sites like the standing stones at Carnac and Wiltshire, he discovered a spiritual aspect to his hikes. The movement and engagement with the environment became a form of psychological therapy, offering a longer focus and a deeper connection to the present.
Nature's Presence in Los Angeles
Anderson's base in Glendale, California, offers a unique perspective on nature's proximity. Despite the urban reputation of Los Angeles, one can easily find themselves surrounded by forests, oceans, beaches, and deserts within a short drive. This accessibility to nature has influenced Anderson's creative process and his personal rituals, making hiking an integral part of his daily routine.
Recording in the Pacific Northwest
The decision to record their new album outside Seattle in a converted barn studio was a deliberate choice. The lush greenery and hiking trails of the Pacific Northwest provided an inspiring environment. Anderson and O'Malley made it a ritual to wake up, have coffee together, and then explore the trails, a practice that influenced their music and the sound of the album. The studio's location, with its creek, woods, and derelict buildings, became an integral part of the recording process, with the band bringing the outdoors into the studio, creating a raw and documentary-like sound.
Meditation and Personal Therapy
Hiking, for Anderson, is a form of meditation and personal therapy. It offers a creative space where he can think, listen, and be inspired by the sounds of nature and his own musical thoughts. This deep listening and reflection have become an essential part of his creative process, influencing his music and providing a sense of personal fulfillment.
The Spirituality of Walking
O'Malley's connection to Robert Macfarlane's writing on walking as a spiritual experience resonates deeply. Macfarlane's description of standing waves and flowing water as a metaphor for the liquid yet non-liquid nature of sound energy aligns with O'Malley's own experience with their music. This spiritual aspect of walking and being in nature has enhanced his creativity and made him a better artist and person.
A Close Encounter with Nature
Anderson's story of his hike on the day David Lynch passed away is a powerful example of how nature can provide unexpected moments of connection and inspiration. Hearing a melodic drone and then encountering a giant owl up close, he captured the sound on his phone, an experience that left him open to his surroundings and influenced the recording session.
The Importance of Walking
For both Anderson and O'Malley, walking has become an essential practice, a ritual that brings focus, creativity, and a deeper connection to the present. It's a form of meditation and therapy, offering a space for personal growth and artistic inspiration. As they say, "Twenty years ago walking would have been boring, but now it's essential."
Conclusion
The story of SunnO))) and their love for hiking and nature is a testament to the power of creative rituals and the influence of the natural world on art. It reminds us of the importance of taking time to connect with nature, to find inspiration in the outdoors, and to let our surroundings influence our creative processes. As Anderson and O'Malley show us, hiking can be a form of personal therapy, a spiritual experience, and a source of artistic inspiration, all rolled into one.
