Damon Albarn – "The Nearer the Fountain, More Pure the Stream Flows"
Creative Direction
"The Nearer the Fountain, More Pure the Stream Flows" stands as a testament to the boundless creativity of Damon Albarn. With this transcendent project, Albarn embarks on a profound exploration of the human condition, revealing a juxtaposition of light and dark, the contemporary and historic, as he fearlessly delves into the mysterious depths of existence itself.
In a hugely inspiring collaboration, Albarn enlisted my expertise as a creative director, allowing me to contribute to every visual aspect of this deeply personal project. Together, we embarked on an journey that ventured into the metaphysical, peering into the very fabric of reality and contemplating the intricate interplay between mind and matter.
This journey started at Albarn's home studio on the outskirts of Reykjavik. We orchestrated immersive composition workshops, harnessing the emotive power of classical musicians to capture the enigmatic essence of Mount Esja, which majestically gazes upon the studio from across the Icelandic landscape. The ethereal melodies and haunting harmonies that emerged from these sessions would serve as the foundation upon which the project was meticulously built.
We reached the peak of our creative journey during the profound solitude of the lockdown in 2020. Seeking solace within the confines of Albarn's Devon home, we devoted ourselves to creating this work. Being home and 'on the land,' Albarn's vision truly crystallised, and the project became a testament to the awe-inspiring complexity of the human experience.
"The Nearer the Fountain, More Pure the Stream Flows" is a testament to Damon Albarn's dedication to pushing artistic boundaries and his unwavering commitment to unearthing profound truths through his music. This sonic tapestry, woven with threads of introspection and wonder, beckons listeners to venture alongside Albarn into the uncharted territories of existence, ultimately inviting them to appreciate life's sheer splendour and intricacy.
Massive thanks to Nick Gray, Rory McGrath (OK-RM) and artist Marton Perlaki who joined me on this journey, quite literally.