Trees: An Audio Journey – Physical Fest

Jamie Wood’s Trees: An Audio Journey combines a detailed and personal memoir of a homemade pilgrimage with a guided mindful walk and a spiritual journey of self-discovery. Recorded by Wood on a ten day walk from Coventry in Warwickshire to Treherbert in South Wales, it is recommended that you listen to the piece while taking your own walk outside and reconnecting with your own roots as Wood did.

Wood’s voice is very soothing from the opening of the piece and the background noises of the recording blend beautifully with those around you. Wood encourages you to be curious and notice things you haven’t noticed before. The chorus of sounds allow you to get lost in the experience.

Wood’s journey is one which his grandparents undertook when they were younger and he scatters their ashes at various points along his journey. He reflects on the positive elements of their personalities and encourages you to connect with your own ancestors and the qualities you admire about them.

Allowing all of your senses to be open to the experience and fully participating in it allows the piece to become quite emotional and poignant. The recording creates a very meditative feeling which creates a sense of peace throughout listening and a lasting calm afterwards. Wood’s sense of joy and gratefulness is compelling and your own reflections and journey make this a deeply personal and individual experience for every listener. 

Trees: An Audio Journey creates a real connection between Wood and the listener. A magical and contemplative experience, this is by far the most intimate mindful walk recording I have ever heard.

Trees: An Audio Journey is being streamed by Physical Fest until 2nd July 2021. Tickets are available here https://www.tickettailor.com/events/tmesistheatre/523479  

Reviewer: Donna M Day

Reviewed: 27th June 2021

North West End UK Rating: ★★★★