Tunnels EP by Johno Wells

These three long-form improvisations were performed on my Eurorack modular synthesizer. Each was done in a single take, with no overdubs or post adjustments (other than mastering).

This release is very special to me. As artists, we can often obsess about how things "should" sound, and how our music will be received. I always strive to be genuine, to be true to what I want to create and not focus on the perceptions of others, but it's hard to stay in that place. Human nature makes us question our own artistry; "Is this too boring? Does it need percussion here? Does it need to move to another place at this point in the improv? Is it compelling enough?"

Sometimes I can get to a place where what I'm making is truly free; untethered, and 100% "in the moment". In performing these three tracks, I allowed myself to get lost in the textures and the flow of each piece. At the end of each performance, I was surprised when I saw the length that I'd recorded. I felt like I had been flying, unaware of time and space. Each time I sat down at the instrument, I had no idea of where I would be going, and was truly able let go.

So...have I found "my voice"? Maybe. There's always magic to be found in these tunnels of sonic journeys (thus, the name of the release), and this is certainly the farthest I've traveled...that, I know.

All this said, I have come to see this release as my love-letter to the modular synth community. There are too many to name--who have given their time, patience, grace, knowledge and encouragement to be who I am and not look back. THANK YOU.

I am a SoCal-based sound designer, synth-addict and life-long musician and filmmaker.
I create sounds on eurorack modular synthesizers and computers. In addition to these self-releases, I also releases on Errorgrid Records. Those albums can be found at errorgrid.bandcamp.com