Concret(e^x) Jungles is a reinterpretation of a word known by many as a way to describe bustling urban cities. The mathematical expression, e^x (symbolizing exponential and unchecked growth) references the rapid and seemingly unstoppable pace of urban development and the inevitable depletion of our natural resources. This hybrid title prepares the listener for a sound world in which concrete and steel aggressively overtake the lush ecosystems that once thrived beneath them.

I wanted this to be a piece that explores as many sound worlds as possible, as to portray the many aspects of living within a dystopian urban hellscape. You will hear prepared vibraphone with unconventional and eerie sounding extended techniques, gestures of auxiliary/industrial found items that provide a frantic and relentless rhythmic foundation, and unconventional tonal language within the mallet percussion instruments. The virtuosic, technical and ever-changing nature of the keyboard writing contributes to the exponentially forward moving aesthetic that I am attempting to portray.

A special thank you to Blue Door Percussion for their enthusiasm and assistance in the creation of this work.