Hanan Townshend’s latest composition, ‘What We Lost II’ is a hauntingly evocative and emotional instrumental piece.
The renowned composer and pianist, Hanan Townshend, is best known for frequently working on ambient film scoring for the likes of director Terrance Mallick (The Tree of Life, To the Wonder, Voyage of Time) and others. He’s also creating a remarkable body of his own works, and here he leads a stirring, fragile, instrumental composition that features deep, complex emotional tones and just astoundingly beautiful instrumental interplay between him on piano and William Fedkenheuer on violins.
As the track title suggests, the theme explored in ‘What We Lost II’ revolves around grief, sorrow, and longing. Hanan’s able to convey these themes in subtle, poignant ways, more reflective than words could ever express. This is apparent right from the opening notes as somber, haunting piano and violin tones ring out slowly and with crystal clarity. Gradually, you begin to sense a deepening as minimal instrumental layers converge and dance in an exquisite, stirring symphony. It immediately evokes a serious, self-reflective tone, yet you’re thoroughly engrossed in the symphonic arrangements.
Majestically, as the violins and piano unfold in tandem, the track allows for great space for a deepening emotional core. As if to unfurl you through the stages of grief, not necessarily in order. As we approach the concluding section, the violin crescendos in despairing tones, laced with an intriguing sense of hope and ultimately, resolve. The last minute is all about resolve as we’re guided back through the melody that we began with.
For listeners of intelligent, resonant instrumental soundscapes, this is sure to strike a deep chord. The more you listen, the more you observe and feel about this composition, ‘What We Lost II’. It speaks volumes to Hanan’s caliber as a performer and composer.
