John Moore - Half Awake (2005)

Half Awake

Late summer 2004. Black Box Recorder has ceased mainland operations, and I am experimenting with some new software called Logic.

I find a gorgeous, decrepit Victorian boathouse on the river Loddon, and set up instruments and microphones. The place is perfect - quiet, except for a weir nearby, which can be silenced when the windows are shut, almost deserted – my sainted sister lives near by, so ablutions and food are attainable, but mostly, it is just me, and I can make as much noise as I want, for as long as I want.

There’s a rowing boat at my disposal, so once my brain becomes too clogged with takes and drop-ins, and inspiration starts to fade, I row down the river, through the water meadow – there’s even a Kingfisher. It’s pretty idyllic all in all. The bells at the end of the record are from the church down the lane, and the chiming clock belonged to an elderly neighbour.

The title, Half Awake refers to the hypnagogic state, a state of mental transition – and one that I was certainly in at the time. It’s nicely antiquated in places - anyone remember Friends Reunited, or Greg Rusedski? Its one unfortunate irony is the song Little England. Written as a satire of Little Englanders, it has become government policy. Be careful what you write!

Being so isolated in beautiful surroundings was a strange experience. The world really did seem far away, and whether or not you believe in magic, you would have felt time slowing down. I do believe in magic, so it was perfect for me. I even grew a beard.