Butterfly Effects by Analog Tara / Tara Rodgers
A four-channel computer music composition with a generative structure that unfolds differently each time it is executed. Its structure is derived from behavioral aspects and ecosystem dynamics of migratory monarch butterflies. It is also inspired by the ‘butterfly effect’ concept of chaos theory: that the flapping of one butterfly’s wings can cause significant changes in how a weather system unfolds over time. Each synthesized sound event represents either a butterfly behavior (like flying or clustering), or an environmental condition (like wind or sunlight). All sequences of sound events result from the interdependence of fluctuating elements in the whole system. Data objects being created and destroyed reference the life cycles of living things. Although the composition generates indefinitely, all sound elements cycle through in a 24-minute period. Each minute equals one hour in the synthesized environment. This is a stereo mix, representing a cycle of three days.
Tracklist
Credits
Composed in Oakland, Calif. and recorded in Montreal. Special thanks to Maggi Payne, Fred Frith, Chris Brown, Abe Doherty, Chris Kubick.
License
All rights reserved.
A multi-instrumentalist composer, producer, and historian of sound, Tara started her career as a self-taught jazz pianist and has since made a wide range of techno and ambient music, and generative sound compositions in SuperCollider. From NPR Music: "Assertive work, bold in the precision and subtlety it takes to mix such signals with thrill and grace and restraint.”