Dirty Projectors compose a symphony for a world in flames
In 2020, California experienced devastating wildfires, marking the start of an alarming trend. David Longstreth, a prominent musician known for his work with Dirty Projectors, found himself surrounded by thick smoke and decided to flee to Alaska with his pregnant wife. The eerie emptiness of the airport and the irony of emitting more carbon to escape the consequences of excessive carbon emissions left a lasting impact on Longstreth. Upon arrival in Alaska, the lush landscape and clear air offered a stark contrast to the fire-ravaged California. Longstreth vividly described the scene as a literal representation of the Earth’s lungs, with abundant life thriving in nature’s assertiveness.
As a musician, composer, and producer, Longstreth has carved out a niche for himself in the music industry. His band, Dirty Projectors, gained notoriety during the Obama era, hailed as a beacon of indie-rock creativity. Collaborating with a diverse range of artists, Longstreth’s eclectic musical influences include jazz, folk, pop, classical, and more. His signature intricate harmonies and unconventional time signatures set his music apart, drawing praise from musical legends like Björk and David Byrne. Longstreth’s unique approach to production and his distinctive voice, characterized by its folkie, feral quality, further enhance his musical prowess. While his musical genius is widely recognized, his intense and enigmatic personality adds an intriguing layer to his public persona.
Following the wildfires in 2021, Longstreth embarked on a musical journey to create “Song of the Earth,” inspired by Mahler’s iconic symphony “Das Lied von der Erde.” The album, set to release in early April, blends Dirty Projectors’ signature sound with orchestral arrangements performed by the chamber group Stargaze. Described as “landscape music,” the album aims to capture the essence of the natural world in a musical format. Featuring a song titled “Uninhabitable Earth, Paragraph One,” directly inspired by David Wallace-Wells’s sobering book on climate change, Longstreth’s album delves into urgent environmental themes with a sense of grandeur and urgency.
Longstreth’s creative process and musical vision reflect a deep emotional range, mirroring his intense and sometimes tumultuous personality. While his music can transport listeners to beautiful places, there is always an underlying edge that adds depth and complexity to his work. Longstreth’s ability to evoke a wide range of emotions through his music is a testament to his artistry and creative depth. As he continues to push the boundaries of musical expression, Longstreth remains a captivating and enigmatic figure in the world of contemporary music.