Gas forming light

Tea break

2022

Includes recordings from a BBC radio broadcast.

Sputnik 1 was the first artificial Earth satellite. It was launched into an elliptical low Earth orbit by the Soviet Union on 4 October 1957 as part of the Soviet space program. It sent a radio signal back to Earth for three weeks before its three silver-zinc batteries ran out, and continued in orbit for two months until atmospheric drag caused it to fall back into the atmosphere on the 4th of January 1958.

HL - 05 - 005

Satellite

Streets

Late night sessions using only the Neutron synthesiser.

Neutrons Before Going to Sleep 2

Experimental track using sampling and resonance filtering.

Ascending

Paying attention to the sounds around us can help us to appreciate the richness of our environment and the complexity of the world we live in. It can also help us to become more mindful and present in the moment, as we tune in to the sensory details of our surroundings.

Everyday sounds the same

Through her newfound passion, her life is transformed. She's no longer just going through the motions; she's actively working towards a brighter future. And she knows that, no matter what happens.

Hoping for a change

Hurry not, for running amiss,
brings stress, mistakes, and chaos.
Stay still, assess, and make wise picks,
find focus, control, and great repose.

So, when the urge to rush takes hold,
pause, reflect, and move with ease.
For in calmness, we unfold,
achieving more with less unease.

Running around

In the vast expanse of the cosmos, we traverse the celestial ocean, solitary explorers amidst the boundless reaches of space. Each step we take propels us further into the unknown, guided by the beacon of curiosity and the unyielding spirit of discovery. With every passing moment, we weave our own cosmic tapestry, threading the fabric of existence as we navigate the intricate dance of celestial bodies. In this grand theater of the universe, we find solace in our journey, recognizing that our quest for understanding and connection ultimately unites us all, casting a faint glimmer of companionship across the endless void.

Out there, there is only space…

In the grand tapestry of existence, there exists a profound and timeless truth: in the end, we all return home, but not necessarily to a physical place. Instead, it is a journey of the soul, a spiritual odyssey that transcends the boundaries of time and space.

Throughout our lives, we venture far and wide, seeking meaning and purpose, experiencing the highs and lows, and accumulating memories and lessons. Yet, as we navigate the labyrinth of existence, we often find ourselves yearning for something more profound, something that speaks to the very core of our being.

In this quest for meaning, we discover that "home" is not just a geographical location; it is a state of being, a sanctuary within ourselves. It is a place where our souls find solace, where our hearts resonate with harmony, and where we connect with a deeper understanding of our purpose in this vast universe.

The journey back to this spiritual home is a path of self-discovery, self-realization, and inner transformation. It requires us to shed the layers of ego, to release attachments to material possessions, and to cultivate qualities like love, compassion, and gratitude. Along this path, we encounter moments of enlightenment and clarity, glimpses of the eternal truth that reminds us of our interconnectedness with all living beings.

In the end, returning home

In the wake of the devastating fire, all that remained of the once-stalwart house were skeletal ruins, blackened timbers reaching for the sky in silent supplication. The air hung heavy with the acrid scent of charred memories, as if the very essence of the home clung desperately to the scorched earth. Among the rubble, fragments of cherished mementos lay strewn, their significance now lost to the merciless flames. The future, once a beacon of promise, now seemed shrouded in uncertainty, a blank canvas marred by the cruel strokes of fate. Yet, amidst the ashes, there lingered a quiet resilience, a glimmer of hope that whispered of the strength to rise from the embers and rebuild anew, for even in devastation, the human spirit finds its steadfast roots.

After, little remais

In the heart of summer, amidst endless green cornfields, youth knew no bounds. Time held no dominion, allowing for stolen moments of wild abandon, where every step declared freedom and every laugh echoed unbridled joy.
Running through the fields was an ode to liberty, a promise of adventure with every step. The earth beneath bare feet was a tactile symphony, a patchwork quilt of life and growth, caressed by the sun's tender touch.
Worries became distant echoes, drowned by the rustling leaves and distant calls of birds in flight. Time slipped through fingers like sand, leaving only sweet memories etched in the heart. Those days of boundless youth were a treasure beyond measure, a sanctuary where time dilation and warm weather wove a realm of eternal magic. They stand as a testament to the enduring power of youth's boundless spirit, forever green in memory.

Green cornfields

In the symphony of life, there is often a moment of profound transformation—a passage where the essence of existence is distilled, where all that remains is the raw, unyielding core.
This ephemeral juncture is the driver for this musical composition which delves into the enigmatic beauty of what endures after the two main parts are removed.

Inspired by Steve Reich's magnum opus, "Music for 18 Musicians", this conceptual piece pays homage to the enduring essence that lingers in its aftermath. It draws from the delicate traces of the two pianos, weaving a tender musical canvas that remotely remind us of the original masterpiece.

This composition is the result of the delicate dance of piano phasing, birthing overtones, textures, and minimal melodies from the original voices of the two pianos that are no longer present, leaving behind what was previously unheard.

Phasing, a compositional technique akin to the rhythmic interplay of two waveforms, manifests through the steady yet not entirely synchronous tempos of two instruments. They gradually shift out of unison, initially creating a subtle echo as one instrument lags behind the other. This evolves into a doubling effect, where each note resonates twice, followed by a rich and intricate ringing resonance. Eventually, the cycle brings the instruments back together, merging echoes and doublings into a unified whole.

Here only what was left is still with us.

18 minutes of what was left

In the quiet moments before sleep takes hold, a father and his daughter share a special ritual. As the world outside grows still, they find themselves nestled in the warmth of their own little sanctuary. With a playful glint in his eye, the father begins to spin tales that dance on the edges of reality. Laughter bubbles up, filling the room with a joy that only their shared imagination can conjure. As the night settles in, she drifts off, knowing in her heart that her father's love will always be her steadfast anchor.

To my daughter, Elsa Luís.

Bedtime story

Life's turning points are the punctuation marks that divide our stories into chapters. They stand tall, resolute, urging us to forge ahead, leaving behind what was, and facing what is to come.
In these moments, the past is a fading echo, a backdrop to the vivid, unfolding present. The script is rewritten, characters redefined, and aspirations rekindled.
With each pivot, we step onto a new path, unburdened by the weight of yesterdays. Possibilities stretch out before us, beckoning us to mold them into our own narrative.
Embracing change is to embrace the essence of life itself - a constant state of becoming, of shedding the old to welcome the new. It is the heartbeat of our existence, the rhythm that propels us forward.

Turning Points

There's something oddly mesmerizing about watching the world go by from the passenger seat of a moving car. It's like stepping into a parallel universe, where everything takes on a surreal, almost artificial quality. The houses, the trees, even the people seem to exist in a slightly different dimension. It's as if we're spectators to our own lives, peering into a scene that's both intimately known and strangely foreign.
In those moments, as the scenery rushes past, it's easy to slip into a reverie. Thoughts drift and dance, unhindered by the constraints of the everyday. The mundanity of the commute gives way to a canvas of contemplation, where dreams and reality mingle in a curious tango. It's a gentle reminder that life, even in its most routine moments, holds a touch of the extraordinary.

Watching the world go by

Dancing, as a response to uptempo music, transcends mere physical motion. It becomes a language of its own, a conversation between the music, our bodies, and the surrounding space. Through each step, sway, and spin, we communicate emotions, desires, and narratives that words often fail to convey.
This form of expression is a testament to the power of music as a universal language. It knows no bounds of culture, language, or background. Regardless of our individual experiences, we find common ground on the dance floor, where the music unites us in a collective celebration of life.
Uptempo music and dance offer a cathartic release, a channel through which we can channel our energies and emotions. It becomes a therapy, a means of rejuvenation, and a source of pure, unadulterated joy. In the midst of the pulsating rhythms, we find a moment of respite, a sanctuary where we are free to be wholly and authentically ourselves.

122BPM

Children live in a world of simplicity and trust. They approach each day with wide-eyed wonder, unburdened by the complexities that adulthood brings. Their hearts are open, believing in the inherent goodness of people and the limitless possibilities life has to offer.
Yet, as time passes, reality sets in. Disappointments, betrayals, and the harshness of the world chip away at that initial innocence. The once unquestioning trust evolves into a more guarded form of understanding. We learn to navigate the intricacies of human nature, sometimes with a touch of skepticism.
But this transition isn't solely a loss; it's a transformation. With experience comes a deeper understanding of the world and the people in it. We learn to appreciate the nuances and complexities of life. Our perspectives broaden, and we develop a sense of discernment that only comes with time.

Fading innocence

In this relentless march towards progress, some of us find ourselves caught in the crossroads of a world that demands perfection at every turn. It's as though we're hurtling towards an elusive ideal, leaving behind the raw, imperfect essence of humanity. The inevitability of this dehumanization looms, casting a shadow over our once simple existence.
The quest for perfection imposes chains that bind us, restricting our ability to breathe, to err, to simply be. We're molded into contorted shapes, conforming to a standard that is as unattainable as it is suffocating. The pursuit of flawlessness has led us to forget that it is our flaws that make us truly human. Welcome to this brave new world.

The relentless march

The future unfolds before us, a tantalizing promise of what lies ahead. It beckons with the allure of untapped potential and uncharted territories.
Beside us, the present stands in silent companionship. Its presence can be easily overlooked, overshadowed by the pull of what's to come. Yet, it is the now that anchors this whirlwind, grounding it in the tangible realities of the moment. 
Meanwhile, the past trails behind, a quiet shadow of memories and experiences that shape us. The rearview mirror offers glimpses of where we've been, a reminder of the roads we've traveled and the milestones we've achieved. It's a testament to resilience, a testament to growth.

Racing Forward

As the days grow shorter and the trees shed their vibrant cloaks, a somber certainty settles in. The march of winter approaches, inevitable and unyielding.
In the inevitability of winter, we find an opportunity to embrace the transient nature of life. It urges us to cherish each fleeting moment, to hold loved ones close, and to find warmth in the smallest gestures of kindness.
Winter brings with it a stillness that invites reflection and introspection. The world quiets, as if nature itself takes a moment to contemplate its own existence. It is a time to turn inward, to seek solace in the depths of our own souls.

Winter is coming

Composition created using The Crow Hill Company's first instrument, Vaults (beta).

As a special thank you for Christian Henson.

The Crow Hill Sessions 1

In the amber glow of nostalgia, I find myself revisiting the days when we were young, when summer stretched out endlessly before us. Those were the days when time seemed to dance to a different rhythm, and worries were but fleeting shadows in the background.
The distant jingle of the ice cream van served as our melodic cue, promising sweet relief from the sun's warm embrace. Its chime carried with it the thrill of anticipation, a universal language that echoed in the hearts of children across the neighborhood. We knew, without a doubt, that ice cream was on the horizon.
In those moments, life was simple. It was about the thrill of the chase, racing barefoot across the pavement, breathless with excitement. It was about the shared laughter, the sticky fingers, and the satisfied smiles that followed. We were cocooned in a world where time stood still, where every day held the promise of endless adventures and sugary delights.
Yet, even then, there was an underlying awareness, a subtle whisper that this golden age was bound to fade. We were gently cautioned that this euphoric bubble of youth and boundless summers couldn't last forever. Like sand slipping through our fingers, those days slipped away, leaving behind cherished memories and a wistful yearning for their return.
Now, as I look back, I realize that those fleeting moments were more than just a chapter in our lives; they were a lesson in impermanence. They taught us that nothing, no matter how beautiful or beloved, can remain unchanged. And while the ache of their passing may linger, it also serves as a poignant reminder to savor the present, to revel in the fleeting magic of each passing moment.

Ice cream dreams

Often in life, the most impactful forces are those that remain unseen, unfelt, and undetected by our primary senses. Yet, they hold within them a power to shape, change, and influence our behavior, emotions, and perceptions.
Sound, in its essence, is not something we can grasp or see; it is a vibration, a dance of molecules that ripples through the air and reaches our ears. But it has the potency to penetrate deeper than our eardrums. It permeates our psyche, our emotions, and even our physical being.
Certain frequencies can even have healing properties, a concept explored in sound therapy, while others can induce stress or discomfort. In essence, sound is an unseen sculptor of our emotional landscape.
Moreover, the ubiquity of sound in our modern age has perhaps made us more susceptible to its influences than ever before. From the omnipresent hum of city life to the curated playlists that accompany our daily routines, sound is an omnipotent force that can either enhance or disrupt our equilibrium.

Invisible Force

Life resembles a video game… we start off as novices, stumbling through the initial stages, figuring out the basics. As we grow, we encounter challenges, level up, and gain new skills. We meet allies, face adversaries, and sometimes, even confront our own inner demons.
We embark on quests, some handed to us, others we choose ourselves. We learn from failures, acquiring experience points that eventually lead to growth. There are moments of triumph, and times when we feel utterly defeated.
We have companions who join us on our journey. Some stay for the long haul, while others only for a season. Each one leaves their mark, shaping our story in unique ways. Some offer wisdom, while others provide the much-needed comic relief.
There are enemies to defeat, representing our biggest challenges and fears. They seem insurmountable at first, but with time and persistence, we learn their patterns and weaknesses. Slowly, we gain the upper hand.
The game also has its share of side quests - those detours that lead to unexpected discoveries and rewards. They may not always seem crucial, but they add depth and richness to our narrative.
As we progress, we gather a collection of items and abilities. Some we carry with us always, while others are traded out for newer, better versions. We adapt and evolve, shedding old habits and acquiring new perspectives.
In the end, it's not about reaching a final destination, but about the experiences gained along the way. It's about the person we become through the challenges we face, the friendships we forge, and the lessons we learn.

The Ultimate Game

In the heart of life's journey, we find ourselves at a poignant impasse, torn between the comforting embrace of the familiar and the thrilling call of the unknown. This is where paths diverge, each shrouded in its own promise and peril. The well-trodden road beckons with the allure of safety, its predictability a balm to the soul, yet it whispers of unspoken what-ifs and the quiet sighs of routine.
On the horizon, the path less traveled stands rugged and bold, its contours brimming with the promise of growth and the risk of the unforeseen. It's a siren call to the spirit of adventure within us, tempting us with visions of what could be, yet shadowed by the weight of uncertainty.

Ambivalent

The resistance to accept the inevitable is not merely a denial but a poignant part of our journey. It is characterized by a deep-seated desire to assert control over our destiny, to mold our story with our own hands, even in the face of overwhelming odds. This internal conflict is both tragic and beautiful, a testament to our perseverance and the quintessential hope that defines human spirit.

Yet, there is a transformative power in eventually embracing what we cannot change. In acceptance, there is a quietude and a profound strength that emerges. It does not signify defeat, but rather a courageous surrender, a decision to move forward despite the unmovable. This acceptance enriches our lives, allowing us to focus on what we can influence and find peace with the rest, crafting a narrative of resilience and understanding in the face of life's unalterable truths.

Trying to escape the inevitable

Driving through the outskirts of town can feel like slipping into a dream. As the urban clutter of the center fades into the rearview mirror, a monotonous landscape of similar buildings and roads takes its place, stretching endlessly. These buildings, once brimming with life, now stand abandoned, their silent facades bearing witness to a forgotten vibrancy.
The roads here are empty, with no sign of human presence, and each mile blurs into the next, creating a hypnotic rhythm that lulls the senses. The quiet is profound, interrupted only by the soft hum of the car's engine. It’s as if the world has paused, waiting for something—or someone—to break the stillness.
In this secluded expanse, time seems to dilate, thoughts wander, and reality gently fractures, allowing the mind to drift into contemplation. The uniformity of the scenery acts like a canvas, upon which the imagination paints its colors and stories. One could almost believe that they are the sole inhabitant of an otherworldly place, exploring the borders of a quiet, desolate dream.

Through the outskirts of town

To leave in a jet plane is to engage in a ritual of detachment, a physical and metaphorical ascent that transcends the mundane trappings of terrestrial existence. From the moment the wheels retract, the plane not only defies gravity but also the myriad complexities that tether the human spirit to the ground. As the aircraft climbs, the passengers find themselves suspended between the familiar world they leave behind and the vast unknown stretching out before them.

This act of ascent is deeply symbolic, representing the human desire to escape the confines of the immediate, to rise above the fray of everyday struggles. It is in this elevated state that one can truly contemplate the vast tapestry of human experience, seeing beyond the immediate to the universal. The higher perspective afforded by this vantage point allows for a clearer vision, where the problems that dominate ground-level existence are rendered smaller, less significant.

Moreover, being above it all instills a sense of liberation—a freedom from the gravitational pull of societal expectations and personal limitations. It embodies the philosophical longing for a better future, one not bound by the immediate but informed by the heights of human potential. In the solitude of the skies, one finds a space for reflection, a rare quietude that fosters deeper understanding.

The music title is a reference to the music "Leaving on a Jet Plane" written by Jon Denver in 1966.

Leaving on a jet plane

Designer, photographer, multimedia artist and musician.

Studied graphic design and typography and since 1996 has worked for numerous companies and institutions inside and outside Portugal while working freelance or through notype.

His graphic design work has been exhibited at various national and international events and published in numerous publications including Publish magazine and the book Marcas & Trademarks PT, featuring several brands designed by him over the years.

As a multimedia artist he developed numerous works individually and in groups such as Ginsonic (with Dario Oliveira and Miguel Dias), Houselab (with João Paulo Feliciano, Rafael Toral, Rui Toscano and Rui Gato), Landscape (with João Pedro and Sérgio Gomes) or System Modular (with João Santos and Carlos Lobo) among others.

As a musician integrated some projects, including Clockwork, and performed solo as an experimental musician in several concerts exploring the guitar as a sound generator.

He also collaborated, as an artist, multimedia designer and consultant, with artists such as Cesário Alves, John Baldessari, João Carrilho, João Paulo Feliciano, Julião Sarmento, Lawrence Weiner, Rafael Toral, Rui Horta, Rui Toscano, among others.

He has presented his work in individual and collective exhibitions and in events and institutions such as Art Attack, Bienal da Maia, CAM / ACARTE, Curtas, Dança do Brasil (Rio de Janeiro), ESAD, ExperimentaDesign, Expo2000 (Hannover), Fonoteca, Fundação Calouste Gulbenkian, Porto2001, Serralves Museum of Contemporary Art, Ravinia Classical Music Festival (Chicago), Rivoli, Silo – Espaço Cultural among others.
In June 2018, he presented the installation MAR at the Museu de Arte Contemporânea de Serralves, which opened the doors to the exploration of the theme of the sea and fishermen and since then he has been photographing, filming and capturing sound on board several vessels offshore the Portuguese coast and somewhere in the Atlantic around the Açores.
In November 2018 he presented the installation Under the Above at Solar – Cinematic Art Gallery. A play that explores the theme of drowning and feelings of abandonment and loneliness on the high seas. In July 2019, he launched the documentary photography book entitled Atlântico, which documents the voyages aboard the Iris do Mar off the Açores.

In 2021 he finished his Master of Photography and Documentary Cinema at ESMAD and continues to work on various documental and artistic projects in the context of the artistic residency supported by the Póvoa de Varzim City Council, MARPVZ19/20.

Helder Luís

Popular tracks