Anthropocene by Tiny Leaves

100% of the remaining part of this Earth month of the royalties from each track will be donated to EarthPercent, a charity dedicated to addressing the climate and nature crisis.

This two-part suite moves seamlessly between lament and celebration. The first part, Anthropocene, takes its name from the proposed geological epoch that marks significant human impact on Earth. It serves as a lament for the accelerating loss of biodiversity and the growing list of endangered species. Drawing on a haunting bird song tape loop recorded at Rectory Wood during the Mynd residency, Pike reflects on how human activities have disrupted the natural rhythms of the world. The piece begins softly, with tender piano, saxophone, and cello, gradually building to a distorted and dramatic crescendo, capturing the increasing tension between human behaviour and ecological balance. Yet, by the end, the loop unravels back into a fuller birdsong, serving as a declaration of hope amid despair.
In contrast, Above/Below captures the vibrant life around Cwmdale Pool, a seemingly modest body of water on the Long Mynd that Pike has long been fascinated by. This piece celebrates the natural world, focusing on the abundant life—dragonflies, bugs, water beetles—that thrives in and around the pool. To create this soundscape, Pike recorded both above and below the water, using a hydrophone to capture the hidden world beneath the surface. The layered composition presents a delicate balance of life, celebrating what remains while reminding us of the beauty that endures despite environmental challenges.

Joel Pike records and performs under the stage name Tiny Leaves. Over a series of records, he has crafted a realm where gentle piano motifs brush up against shimmering guitars and strings rise before falling away amongst a backdrop of field recordings.

tinyleaves.co.uk
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