elizabeth Veldon - 70hiroshima

Review by Tejas

Elizabeth Veldon's latest album, 70hiroshima, is a haunting and thought-provoking exploration of the impact of the atomic bombs dropped on Hiroshima and Nagasaki in 1945. Through a series of ambient soundscapes and spoken word pieces, Veldon creates a sonic landscape that evokes the horror and devastation of the bombing, as well as the ongoing legacy of nuclear weapons.

The album's title refers to the fact that the atomic bombs dropped on Hiroshima were equivalent to the explosive power of 70,000 tons of TNT. Veldon uses this as a starting point to explore the scale and impact of the bombing, as well as the human toll it took. The album's opening track, "70hiroshima," is a sparse and eerie soundscape that sets the tone for the rest of the album. The use of field recordings and drones creates a sense of unease and tension, while the spoken word samples highlight the human stories behind the bombing.

Throughout the album, Veldon explores different aspects of the bombing, from the immediate aftermath to the ongoing health effects suffered by survivors. "Hibakusha" is a particularly moving track, featuring the testimonies of survivors of the bombing. The use of spoken word samples adds a personal touch to the album, reminding listeners that the bombing was not just an abstract historical event, but something that had a profound impact on real people.

Summary by Tejas

70hiroshima is a powerful and affecting album that serves as a reminder of the devastating impact of nuclear weapons. Veldon's use of ambient soundscapes and spoken word samples creates a deeply immersive listening experience that is both thought-provoking and emotionally resonant. Highly recommended for anyone interested in exploring the human stories behind this tragic event.