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The Role of Collaborators in Crafting Bon Iver’s ‘22, A Million’ Soundscape

By Yuki Tanaka • 8 min read •
The Role of Collaborators in Crafting Bon Iver’s ‘22, A Million’ Soundscape

The Unconventional Vision of '22, A Million'

Bon Iver's ‘22, A Million’ is a testament to the power of collaboration and innovation in music production. Released in 2016, the album marked a significant departure from the acoustic sound that initially defined Bon Iver. Instead, it embraced a complex tapestry of digital effects, obscure samples, and an abstract narrative. At the heart of this transformation were the unique collaborations and experimental techniques that redefined the band's approach to creating music.

Collaborative Magic: Key Players Behind the Scenes

Central to the creation of ‘22, A Million’ was a group of collaborators who brought diverse expertise and creative energy. Notable among these were musicians and producers like BJ Burton, known for his work with James Blake and Francis and the Lights, and the enigmatic engineer Chris Messina.

BJ Burton: The Architect of Sound

BJ Burton played a crucial role as both a producer and sound architect on the album. His prior experience with genre-blending artists equipped him with the skills to help translate Justin Vernon’s abstract concepts into tangible sounds. Burton's approach often involves deconstructing tracks to their core elements before reconstructing them with new textures and layers. This process was pivotal in crafting the distinctive electronic feel of ‘22, A Million’.

An example of Burton's influence is heard in “10 d E A T h b R E a s T ⚄ ⚄,” where distorted synthesizers clash with organic instruments to create a haunting yet exhilarating soundscape. By utilizing advanced sampling techniques, Burton contributed to an album that defies easy categorization.

Chris Messina: The Technical Wizard

Chris Messina, known for his technical prowess, was instrumental in bringing Vernon's experimental vision to life. His ability to manipulate recording equipment to achieve unconventional results was vital. For instance, Messina used a modified sampler called the OP-1, which allowed real-time manipulation of sounds during recording sessions. This enabled dynamic experimentation with looping and layering, forming the backbone of tracks like “33 ‘GOD’.”

The collaboration with Messina exemplifies how technological innovation can push creative boundaries in music production, allowing artists to explore new auditory territories.

Innovative Production Techniques

Aside from human collaboration, the album's innovative sound was also shaped by experimental production techniques. These methods included unconventional uses of technology and a deliberate blurring of genres.

The Role of Auto-Tune and Vocal Manipulation

Auto-Tune, traditionally used for pitch correction, was employed as a creative tool on ‘22, A Million’. Justin Vernon's use of Auto-Tune was not merely corrective but expressive. In songs like “715 - CRΣΣKS,” his manipulated vocals add emotional depth and vulnerability, reflecting themes of existential angst and introspection.

This technique demonstrates how technological tools can be repurposed to serve artistic expression, rather than merely adhering to their conventional roles.

Sample-Based Innovation

The album extensively utilizes samples, but not in the traditional hip-hop sense. Instead, samples are treated as foundational building blocks to be dissected and rearranged. One notable example is “21 M◊◊N WATER,” which incorporates obscure vocal clips and environmental sounds that blend seamlessly into the track’s ethereal ambiance.

  • Workflow Insight: Sampling involved a detailed process of selection and transformation, where each snippet was carefully chosen for its texture and potential to contribute to the overarching narrative.

Thematic Exploration Through Sound

The soundscape of ‘22, A Million’ serves as a narrative vehicle exploring themes of identity, confusion, and spiritual seeking. Each track acts as a sonic chapter in a broader story arc.

A Case Study: “8 (circle)”

Consider the track “8 (circle),” which encapsulates the album's thematic essence through its cyclical structure and layered instrumentation. Collaborators introduced orchestral elements juxtaposed with electronic distortions, symbolizing the tension between humanity and technology.

This track exemplifies how collaborative efforts can weave multiple narratives into a cohesive whole, transforming abstract ideas into emotionally resonant experiences.

The Legacy of ‘22, A Million’: Lessons for Musicians

For musicians and producers seeking inspiration from Bon Iver's collaborative journey on ‘22, A Million’, there are valuable lessons to be learned:

  • Embrace Collaboration: Collaborating with artists from diverse backgrounds can introduce new perspectives and techniques that enrich your music.
  • Utilize Technology Creatively: Experimenting with technology beyond its intended purpose can unlock new creative possibilities.
  • Thematic Cohesion: Use soundscapes to reflect and enhance thematic elements in your work for a more immersive listener experience.

Ultimately, ‘22, A Million’ stands as a testament to the transformative power of collaboration in music production. By melding diverse talents and experimental techniques, Bon Iver crafted an album that challenges conventions and continues to inspire artists across genres.