Phil Cook Blends Piano and Birdsong in Appalachia

Phil Cook takes inspiration from the sounds of nature and the advice of legendary figures like Ralph Waldo Emerson on his latest piano album, Appalachia Borealis. Cook’s venture into this ambient musical territory showcases his skillful blending of piano melodies with the melodies of bird songs, resulting in a unique auditory experience that captures the essence of the North Carolina Piedmont. Through collaborations with renowned musicians like Bon Iver’s Justin Vernon and the serenades of local birds, Cook creates a musical tableau that beckons listeners to open a window to the woods in their minds.

For Cook, the process of creating Appalachia Borealis was deeply intertwined with a personal journey of introspection and renewal. After a tumultuous period in his life marked by turning forty, rediscovering his love for the piano, and navigating a challenging divorce, Cook sought solace in the peaceful surroundings of a secluded farmhouse on the edge of a forest. It was here, surrounded by the tranquil beauty of nature, that Cook found himself living alone for the first time, with nothing but a piano and the symphony of birds to permeate the silence.

Drawing on the guidance of gospel pianist Chuckey Robinson and the creative input of Justin Vernon, Cook crafted a collection of piano pieces that embraced clarity and intimacy, setting aside the sustain pedal to enhance the purity of the music. Vernon’s innovative use of birdsong recordings during the production process added an ethereal quality to the album, seamlessly blending nature’s melodies with Cook’s piano compositions. Songs like “Thrush Song” and “Buffalo” feature bird sounds as both literal elements and metaphorical symbols, weaving a tapestry of sound that mirrors the natural world around us.

As Cook prepares to embark on a tour in support of Appalachia Borealis, he reflects on the role of music as a transformative force in people’s lives. With over 1,800 voice memos on his phone and a penchant for capturing moments of inspiration and everyday life, Cook’s approach to music is deeply personal and introspective. He envisions his listeners finding solace and companionship in his instrumental compositions, acting as a soothing backdrop to life’s many passages and transitions.

Through Appalachia Borealis, Phil Cook invites us to immerse ourselves in the natural world, to listen not just with our ears but with our hearts, and to find peace and beauty in the melodies that surround us. In a world filled with noise and distractions, Cook’s album serves as a reminder of the healing power of music and nature, urging us to slow down, open a window to the woods, and let the morning be.