In an in-depth interview with Lucy Jones, Stephen Wilkinson, known as Bibio, unpacked the creative journey behind his latest 10-track EP, Sleep On The Wing. The opening track, also titled Sleep On The Wing, encapsulates the notion of escaping urban life to embrace the tranquility of the countryside. The music video, crafted by Sonnye Lim, vividly illustrates this theme as it contrasts the rigid, man-made structures of a city with the expansive beauty of lush landscapes.
Bibio's recent work incorporates field recordings of nature, blending them seamlessly with melodies inspired by his surroundings in the West Midlands. This fusion of sound aims to transport listeners to serene environments—a sentiment particularly resonant during the constraints of lockdown when many sought solace in nature. Through his music, Bibio intertwines experiences of birds, water, and unique ecological encounters, evoking a deep connection to the English and Welsh countryside.
During the interview, Bibio reminisced about his childhood experiences in the outdoors, explaining how these formative moments have profoundly shaped his artistic vision. His passion for capturing the unseen beauty of nature is illustrated through his use of field recordings. For Bibio, integrating technology with organic sound allows for an emotional resonance that evokes nostalgia, creating an impressionistic landscape for listeners.
The interview highlights his love for nature and philosophical reflections on existence, inspired in part by thinkers like Alan Watts and Walt Whitman. Bibio's EP aims to convey the interconnectedness of life and the mysteries of our universe, where sound acts as a language of emotion. The exploration of these themes is characteristic of his unique sonic aesthetic—inviting listeners to pause and reflect on their own experiences in relation to the vastness of nature.
For those interested in exploring Bibio's Sleep On The Wing, it is available now through his label, Warp Records. Further insights into his discography can be found at Warp's official site.