Listening to the Planet: The Story of Green Green Earth

I’m deeply grateful to Scummy Water Tower for publishing my essay, Listening to the Planet: The Story of Green Green Earth. In this article, I explore the intersection of ambient music, environmental sound art, and ecological preservation, providing an inside look into the making of my latest album, Green Green Earth.

A central theme of the essay is sonic conservation — a concept I define as the act of capturing and preserving the natural sounds of ecosystems to raise awareness about environmental protection. The essay dives into how these field recordings from sanctuaries, forests, and gardens form the backbone of my work. Each sound is not only a tool for artistic expression but also a call for preserving the habitats from which they originate.

I also share the personal significance of each track on Green Green Earth, with a focus on the natural symbolism behind the music. Whether it’s the transformation represented by Viburnum or the peaceful resonance of Canopy Song, each composition reflects my connection to nature and the environment. These pieces embody the fragility and beauty of our planet, inviting listeners to reconnect with the Earth through ambient soundscapes and eco-conscious art.

This essay is more than a breakdown of my album; it’s an invitation to explore the role of nature-inspired music in raising ecological awareness and fostering a deeper sense of mindfulness about our surroundings. The piece also touches on how ambient music can serve as a powerful medium for ecological advocacy and the preservation of soundscapes that are in danger of disappearing.

I’m incredibly thankful to Scummy Water Tower for helping bring this story to a wider audience. If you’re interested in the intersection of ambient environmental music, sound art, and ecological conservation, I highly recommend reading the full article. It’s an opportunity to dive deeper into the creative process behind Green Green Earth and gain a greater understanding of the role sound art plays in both artistic practice and environmental activism. I hope this article sparks a deeper reflection on how we, as a community, can listen to and protect the world around us.

Check out the full essay: Listening to the Planet: The Story of Green Green Earth here.

and if you haven’t heard it yet, stream Green Green Earth everywhere: [ Streaming Links }

Thank you for your continued support.

— Matthew Hiram