Angels Morts

Tag: music

  • The Choir’s New Song – Why the universe is humming a happy tune.

    The Choir’s New Song – Why the universe is humming a happy tune.

    The Choir’s New Song – Why the universe is humming a happy tune

    It seems like the universe is singing in harmony lately, with scientists discovering new evidence of cosmic music. But what’s behind this celestial serenade?

    • Cosmic strings**: According to some theories, the fabric of space-time itself could be producing a hum. Cosmic strings are hypothetical topological defects that can vibrate at different frequencies, creating a range of sounds.
    • Gravitational waves: The detection of gravitational waves by LIGO and VIRGO have confirmed Einstein’s theory of general relativity. These ripples in the fabric of spacetime could be producing a subtle hum as they pass through space.
    • Aurora borealis: The spectacular displays of light in the polar regions might not be just for show. Some scientists believe that the Northern Lights and Southern Lights could be generating a symphony of sounds, although this is still purely speculative.
    • Black holes: These cosmic vacuum cleaners are thought to have an intense magnetic field that can produce intense energy releases. This could create a loud hum or even a sonic boom as matter approaches the event horizon.

    But what does it all mean? Is the universe simply having a good time, or is there something more profound at play?

    “The harmony of the spheres” has long been a topic of fascination in Western culture. From Plato to Kepler, philosophers and scientists have speculated about the music of the stars. Could this new evidence be the proof we’ve been searching for?” – Astronomy Magazine

    As we continue to explore the mysteries of the universe, it’s clear that the harmony of the spheres is not just a poetic notion, but a very real phenomenon. Whether or not the universe is actually singing in tune with itself, one thing is certain – the search for cosmic music has brought us closer to understanding the grand symphony of existence.

  • The Hearth Choir – Singing With Invisible Friends

    The Hearth Choir – Singing With Invisible Friends

    The concept of communicating with unseen companions has been a recurring theme in folklore and imaginative play. But in the realm of innovative technology, a new movement known as The Hearth Choir takes center stage, creating a digital platform where users can engage in choral singing with “invisible friends.” This futuristic interplay of technology and art offers a fascinating glimpse into the evolving nature of social interaction and creativity in the digital age.

    Understanding The Hearth Choir

    The Hearth Choir is a revolutionary music technology initiative that allows participants to sing in a virtual choir, accompanied by AI-generated voices. It’s designed to simulate the experience of singing with actual people, thus enabling musical collaborations without geographical constraints. Conceived by a group of musicians and software engineers, the project aims to democratize music collaboration using cutting-edge technology.

    “We wanted to create a space where anyone, regardless of their location or musical background, could experience the joy of singing in a choir,” says Emily Tran, co-founder of The Hearth Choir. “Our platform uses advanced AI algorithms to generate harmonies and sync voices together seamlessly.”

    The Technology Behind The Hearth Choir

    The Hearth Choir utilizes sophisticated artificial intelligence and machine learning algorithms to create realistic, human-like singing voices. At its core, the system implements a mixture of neural networks and voice synthesis technology, similar to those employed in speech synthesis programs.

    • Voice Synthesis: By analyzing hundreds of thousands of vocal recordings, the AI can replicate various singing styles and timbres. This technology allows users to select from a diverse range of voice types to accompany their singing.
    • Real-Time Harmony Creation: The AI generates harmonies in real-time, adapting to the pitch and rhythm of the user’s singing. This ensures a harmonious and cohesive choral experience.
    • User Experience: The application is designed to be user-friendly, with an intuitive interface that facilitates easy interaction with the virtual choir.

    “The capability to produce harmonized choral music in real time is a game-changer,” states Dr. Miguel Hernandez, a leading AI researcher at Stanford University. “This virtual choral system not only enhances artistic collaboration but also opens up new possibilities for AI in the arts.”

    Cultural and Social Implications

    The emergence of The Hearth Choir underscores a broader cultural trend towards virtual experiences. It challenges traditional notions of community and connection, redefining how people engage in collective activities.

    • Fostering Inclusivity: People who might not have access to local choirs or feel intimidated by social settings can participate in a supportive, virtual environment.
    • Bridging Distances: Family and friends separated by distance can sing together, preserving emotional bonds through a shared love of music.
    • Promoting Diversity: The versatility of AI-generated voices allows for the inclusion of diverse musical genres and styles, reflecting a wide array of cultural influences.

    Music educator Jalilah Carter remarks, “The Hearth Choir provides an innovative platform for building community through music, regardless of physical barriers.”[source]

    Potential Challenges and Criticisms

    Despite its innovative approach, The Hearth Choir faces certain challenges and criticisms that warrant consideration.

    • Authenticity of Experience: Critics argue whether an AI-generated choir can replicate the emotional nuances and vibrant dynamics of a live human choir.
    • Technical Limitations: As with any technology, there are limitations to AI’s ability to perfectly mimic human vocal characteristics.
    • Impact on Traditional Choirs: Some worry that virtual choirs might overshadow or replace traditional choir settings, impacting communal music-making.

    “While AI-driven choirs provide unprecedented opportunities, they should not replace the organic interaction found in traditional choirs,” suggests Naomi Chen, a voice coach and choir director.[source]

    The Future of Virtual Choirs

    The potential applications and iterations of The Hearth Choir suggest a promising trajectory for virtual and AI-driven music experiences. The expansion of this technology could lead to enhancements in other realms of the performing arts, including virtual orchestra collaborations and adaptive music lessons.

    Looking forward, developers aim to refine the AI tech further, enhancing the realism and scope of its voice synthesis capabilities. Collaborations with renowned music institutions and technology companies are anticipated, which would provide additional resources and expertise.

    “In the next decade, we will likely see even more seamless integration of AI in music and other art forms, breaking boundaries and forming new creative channels,” predicts Raj Patel, technology futurist and author.[source]

    In closing, The Hearth Choir represents a compelling intersection between music, technology, and community. As digital innovatives continues to push the boundaries, it invites us to reconsider what it means to connect and create together, not just in physical spaces, but in virtual realms teeming with possibilities.

  • Icicle Harps – Music of the Hidden Realms

    Icicle Harps – Music of the Hidden Realms

    In the hushed expanses of the world’s frozen frontiers, where the air is thin and silence reigns, nature plays a symphony all her own. Amongst these pristine wildernesses lies a hidden treasure: the icicle harp, a natural instrument whose crystalline notes weave a delicate tapestry of sound, captivating those who venture near.

    The Formation of Icicle Harps

    Icicle harps are fashioned by the hands of the elements. As water drips and freezes in successive layers, icicles form, stretching downwards like the strings of a grand harp. When the wind breathes through these icy tendrils, or when a curious adventurer strikes them gently, they sing.

    According to an article by National Geographic, the vibrations produced by these icicles vary in pitch depending on their length, thickness, and the surrounding air temperature. “Each icicle produces its own unique tone, and when combined, they create a haunting melody that seems to echo from another realm,” says National Geographic.

    The Artistry of Nature

    The beauty of icicle harps lies in their transient existence. Like a snowflake or a rainbow, they are ephemeral, gracing us with their presence only briefly. These frozen compositions are most often found in caves, cliff overhangs, and on the eaves of remote cabins, away from the warm breath of civilization.

    “It’s otherworldly, the way they sound,” remarks Jørn Tuhresen, an Icelandic explorer. “You strike one icicle and it resonates with others. Sometimes, it’s almost as if they’re communicating, sharing secrets held in winter’s heart.”

    Encounters with Icicle Harps

    While icicle harps are a rare find, adventurers and musicians alike have sought them out, drawn by the allure of their ethereal music. In regions such as Alaska, Russia, and Northern Europe, these natural phenomena become an irresistible muse for those seeking inspiration off the beaten path.

    Musician’s Perspective

    In a documentary segment produced by The Discovery Channel, musician Sarah Crispin describes her first encounter with an icicle harp: “I was hiking through the Fjords of Norway when I found a series of icicles hanging from a cliff face. The wind was strong that day, and you could hear them singing above the roar of the ocean. It was a harmony unlike anything I had ever heard before. I felt compelled to capture that sound in my compositions.” Discovery Channel.

    The Scientific Inquiry

    Scientists have also explored the physics behind icicle harps. By studying the unique acoustics, researchers have gained insights into the properties of ice and sound transmission. A study published in the Journal of Glaciology reveals that the vibrations produced can help scientists understand ice formation processes better, a crucial aspect as climate change continues to affect polar regions.

    Icicle Harps in Culture

    The mystical allure of icicle harps has permeated various aspects of culture, from music to literature. These instruments of nature have inspired composers to replicate their ethereal sounds in orchestral works and film scores, seeking to evoke the raw beauty of untamed wilderness.

    • Literature: Nature writers have frequently personified icicle harps in poetry and prose, citing them as symbols of winter’s ephemeral beauty and nature’s musical ingenuity.
    • Music: Pieces like “Winter’s Embrace” by modern orchestras incorporate sounds meant to mimic the tones of icicle harps, often using celestas or glass instruments to achieve similar auditory effects.

    Preservation and Conservation

    As climate change poses a threat to our planet’s frozen landscapes, the conservation of places where icicle harps naturally occur has become crucial. Environmental organizations aim to protect these locales, not only for their ecological value but also for the cultural and artistic inspiration they offer.

    “The sounds of the icicle harp are a reminder of the delicate balance of nature,” says Dr. Eleanor Welsh, a climatologist with the Greenpeace. “Protecting these formations is about preserving the music of our planet, a melody that is in danger of being lost amidst rising temperatures.”

    Conclusion: A Legacy of Frozen Melodies

    Icicle harps represent more than mere cold curiosities; they are a testament to the intricate artistry found within nature’s silent symphony. As we move forward into an era where our relationship with the environment must become more harmonious, the haunting sound of these frozen instruments reminds us of the delicate interplay between nature and humanity.

    In exploring the realms of ice and quietude, where these formations hide during their short-lived existence, we find more than just echoes of chill winds—we discover songs that sing of time, existence, and the gentle power of the natural world. As you listen to these hidden melodies, you are, for a moment, connected to a timeless concert conducted by the world itself.

  • The Choir of the Celestial – Angels in Music and Mysticism

    The Choir of the Celestial – Angels in Music and Mysticism

    Throughout history, angels have been a profound symbol, captivating the imaginations of artists and mystics alike. Their ethereal presence has inspired countless musical compositions and provided a wellspring of spiritual exploration and artistic expression.

    Angels in Musical Composition

    From Gregorian Chants to contemporary symphonies, angels have consistently been depicted as conduits of divine music. Their celestial associations have led to them being portrayed as the ultimate harbingers of harmony and peace. Consider Hildegard von Bingen, a 12th-century composer and mystic, who believed her music was inspired by angelic visions. Her compositions often sought to reflect the heavenly choir she envisioned in her spiritual visions.

    “Heavenly beings are free of schema and display beauty by their simplicity, and elevate the spirit through divine song.” – Hildegard von Bingen

    In modern times, compositions such as Olivier Messiaen’s Quartet for the End of Time, composed during World War II, invokes the presence of angels in its movements. Messiaen, a devout Catholic, often composed with a deep sense of spiritual and mystical themes, and angels regularly occupied a sacred place within his works.

    Mystical Significance of Angels

    Beyond the symphonic halls, angels have also played a key role in mystic traditions. In Christianity, Islam, and Judaism, angels serve as messengers between the divine and the mortal. Mystics such as Emanuel Swedenborg claimed direct communication with the angelic realm, detailing these encounters in his works, which have been integral to the understanding of heavenly hierarchies and the afterlife in spiritual teachings.

    Their significance transcends religious boundaries, resonating with many who view angels as embodiments of divine protection and comfort. Angels are often cited in near-death experiences and are part of spiritual practices such as prayer and meditation. Their symbolic presence acts as a beacon of hope, offering solace in the face of adversity.

    The Legacy of Angels in Culture

    In sum, angels have imprinted themselves upon music and mysticism, blending these disciplines into a holistic narrative that speaks to the interconnectivity of the divine and the earthly. Their perpetual allure and the relationship between sound and spirituality create a resonant chord that spans centuries.

    From scripture to symphony, the angelic role as intermediaries invites us to listen, reflect, and embrace the harmonies of the heavens that surround our everyday lives.

    For further insight into the roles of angels in religious traditions, you can read more from Encyclopaedia Britannica.

  • Gothic Horizons Revisited – Dark Culture in Modern Times

    Gothic Horizons Revisited – Dark Culture in Modern Times

    Gothic Horizons Revisited: Dark Culture in Modern Times

    The Gothic subculture has always been an enigmatic and perennial presence in the tapestry of modern culture. Emerging from the post-punk era of the late 1970s and early 1980s, Gothic culture has evolved from its shadowy roots into a multifaceted phenomenon. Today, as we revisit Gothic horizons, the allure of the dark mingles with modern sensibilities, creating a compelling dialogue between past and present.

    The Origins of Gothic Culture

    The Gothic subculture found its inception in the works of bands like Bauhaus, Siouxsie and the Banshees, and The Cure—each instrumental in crafting the soundscapes and aesthetics that fans would come to associate with the genre. The 1979 Bauhaus single “Bela Lugosi’s Dead” is often cited as a cornerstone in Gothic music history. Peter Murphy’s haunting baritone vocals set against stark, minimalist instrumentation paved the way for the architectural elegance of Gothic music and style.

    As the music scene burgeoned, so did the aesthetics. Venues like the Batcave in London served as hubs for Goths, presenting a blend of music, fashion, and art that thrived on a celebration of the macabre and the surreal.

    The Evolution of Gothic Fashion and Style

    Gothic fashion has always been characterized by a striking palette of blacks and velvety textures, adorned with lace, leather, and metal. In modern times, this fashion sense has evolved to include a wider spectrum of colors and influences—but the heart of it remains the same: a celebration of individuality and a rebellion against mainstream norms.

    • Haute Goth: High fashion has echoed Gothic vibes through designers like Alexander McQueen and Jean Paul Gaultier, who have integrated dark romanticism into their collections. The recent Met Gala themes, often embracing Gothic elements, have brought this style further into the limelight.
    • Cyber Goth: This modern twist fuses traditional Gothic style with elements of industrial and futuristic aesthetics. Bright neon colors, often paired with traditional black, create a striking contrast.

    Gothic Art and Literature Reinterpreted

    The influence of Gothic literature, with its roots in the dark romanticism of authors like Edgar Allan Poe and Mary Shelley, persists in contemporary storytelling. Modern Gothic literature—works like Neil Gaiman’s The Graveyard Book or Sarah Perry’s The Essex Serpent—is characterized by a rich narrative that delves into human psyche through the lens of the eerie and the supernatural.

    “Gothic tales thrive because they grapple with contemporary anxieties, making them feel immediate and relevant—a dark mirror held up to our times.” – The Paris Review

    Gothic Influence in Today’s Media

    Contemporary media continues to explore and evolve the themes prevalent in Gothic subculture. Television shows like Penny Dreadful or The Haunting of Hill House, along with movies like Crimson Peak by Guillermo del Toro, showcase the expansive Gothic imagination, threading through narratives of horror, mysticism, and emotional depth.

    Moreover, music continues to play a vital role. Artists like Chelsea Wolfe and The Birthday Massacre blend Gothic elements with electronic music, creating soundscapes that evoke both nostalgia and novel interpretations.

    The Global Reception of Gothic Culture

    What was once seen as a niche subculture has opened its gates to a broader audience. The worldwide appeal of Gothic culture is reflected in events such as the Wave-Gotik-Treffen in Leipzig, Germany, one of the largest festivals celebrating Gothic music and arts. The international proliferation of Gothic culture can also be seen in countries like Japan, where the “Gothic Lolita” fashion trend reimagines Gothic style with a unique cultural twist.

    “Gothic culture has a unique ability to adapt and re-invent, ensuring its survival and relevance in an ever-changing world.” – The New Yorker

    Conclusion

    Revisiting Gothic horizons in modern times offers a glimpse into how this subculture has transitioned from the margins to a celebrated element of contemporary culture. With its origins steeped in darkness and rebellion, today’s Gothic culture captures the spectrum of human emotions and experiences, offering both solace and inspiration to outsiders and insiders alike. As it evolves, it beckons us to see beyond the shadows, embracing a paradoxical light within darkness—a sentiment that is as profound now as it ever was.

  • The Invisible Choir: Songs for the Departed

    The Invisible Choir: Songs for the Departed

    In a world characterized by constant noise and ceaseless chatter, there exists a serene realm where silence is golden, but melodies echo through the ether—an ethereal sphere occupied by The Invisible Choir. This imagined ensemble sings for those who have departed, offering a haunting yet beautiful testament to lives once lived and stories worth remembering.

    “Music is the divine way to tell beautiful, poetic things to the heart,”

    – Pablo Casals

    The concept of music as a form of communication with the departed is not new. Across different cultures and throughout history, music has played an integral role in funerary practices and rituals aimed at easing the soul’s journey to the afterlife. These traditions, from mournful dirges on Scottish bagpipes to the spiritually uplifting chants of Buddhist monks, illuminate music’s unique power to bridge the gap between the earthly and the divine.

    • Historical Roots: In ancient Egypt, tunes were believed to accompany the deceased through the underworld. Similarly, in Greece, music was an offering to gods and guides for the souls.
    • Cultural Significance: African griots use music as a storytelling vehicle, keeping the spirit of ancestors alive through generations.
    • Modern Interpretations: Contemporary compositions, like those of composer Eric Whitacre’s Virtual Choir, allow voices worldwide to join in ethereal harmony, demonstrating the continuing evolution of this tradition.

    The Invisible Choir taps into this rich tapestry of cultural practices. While the choristers may be unseen, their voices resonate with those left behind. Singing of joy and sorrow, loss and remembrance, The Invisible Choir provides solace to the living. Amidst quietude, their songs decorate silence with warmth and reflection, embracing the grieving with the comfort of melody.

    Technological Connection: The digital age offers new pathways for The Invisible Choir. With platforms like YouTube, SoundCloud, and others, compositions can be shared globally, reaching those who need the healing touch of music, no matter where they are.

    This metaphoric choir isn’t about grieving alone; it’s a celebration of legacy and memory. With each note, The Invisible Choir reaffirms that while the body may fail, the spirit endures through the connective tones of music. It is a gentle reminder that life, though temporary, leaves an indelible mark, and through song, the departed remain among us, serenading through the echoes of eternity.

    The Invisible Choir is an invitation—to pause, listen, and feel—the undying lullaby sung for the departed, a promise that melodies never die.

  • Songs of the Hollow: Sound Experiments

    Songs of the Hollow: Sound Experiments

    The concept of sound has always been a fundamental aspect of human culture and communication. In recent years, the exploration of sound experiments has expanded, leading to intriguing developments in the world of music and beyond. Songs of the Hollow delves deep into these aural landscapes, bringing forward innovations that challenge the conventional understanding of sound and its potential.

    A New Era of Sound Exploration

    Sound experiments are not new. Pioneers such as John Cage have long pushed the boundaries of what constitutes music. Cage once famously stated, “There is no such thing as an empty space or an empty time. There is always something to see, something to hear.” [source] This philosophy underlines much of the contemporary exploration into sound, where ambient noises and unconventional sources are taken as seriously as traditional instruments.

    The Genesis of Songs of the Hollow

    Songs of the Hollow emerges from this rich tradition of experimental sound. It was conceived not merely as a collection of songs but as an immersive experience, a sonic journey into realms that blend the natural and the synthesized.

    • Organic Sounds: Nature is a central theme, with field recordings from dense forests, open plains, and remote mountaintops forming the backbone of many tracks.
    • Synthesized Innovation: By marrying organic sounds with cutting-edge technology, the music produces unexpected harmonies and rhythms that challenge perceptions.
    • The Role of Silence: Inspired by Cage’s ideas, silence is used not as a mere absence of sound but as a powerful tool that accentuates the music’s emotional depth.

    The Instruments Beyond the Traditional

    Experimentation with sound often leads artists to seek instruments beyond the traditional. Songs of the Hollow features an array of unconventional instruments, blurring lines between noise and music, nature and artifice:

    • Found Objects: Everyday items, from kitchen utensils to industrial machinery, are recorded and manipulated to produce unique soundscapes.
    • Digital Manipulation: The use of software to stretch, condense, and modulate recordings allows for a level of precision and creativity unparalleled in history.
    • Biophonic Inputs: Utilizing natural biological sounds, such as bird calls and insect chatter, blended with human compositions.

    Noteworthy Experiments in the Field

    Several contemporary artists and projects demonstrate the cutting-edge frontiers of sound experimentation:

    “The more one studies the harmony of the two voices of the river, the broader one’s understanding of the unity of the universe itself.” – Pauline Oliveros [source]

    • Brian Eno’s Generative Music: Eno’s work in generative music, where systems are created to compose pieces dynamically, illustrates the potential of algorithmic sound experiments.
    • Ryoji Ikeda’s Sound Art: Ikeda pushes the boundaries of sound and experience with immersive installations that challenge listeners’ perceptions and hearing capabilities.
    • Oliveros’ Deep Listening: The practice of taking audio to a meditative, reflective level, championed by Pauline Oliveros, highlights the interplay between mindfulness and sound.

    The Impact and Implications of Sound Experiments

    The forays into unconventional soundscapes by Songs of the Hollow and its contemporaries have implications beyond entertainment:

    1. Therapeutic Benefits: Studies have shown that ambient and experimental music can aid in stress reduction and mental focus, effectively supporting therapeutic contexts.
    2. Environmental Awareness: By incorporating natural sounds, these experiments raise awareness about the importance of environmental preservation.
    3. Expanding Musical Boundaries: The redefinition of what constitutes music encourages diversity and inclusivity within the music community.

    The Future of Sound Experiments

    Looking forward, the trajectory of sound experiments appears promising. Technologies such as virtual reality and augmented reality are beginning to play a more substantial role in sound design, creating opportunities for even more immersive experiences.

    As our understanding of neuroscience grows, the ways sound can be used to interact with the human mind will become increasingly sophisticated, opening doors to new forms of artistic and personal expression.

    “Music is the shorthand of emotion.” – Leo Tolstoy [source]

    Songs of the Hollow exemplifies the limitless potential of sound experiments. It demonstrates that sound—regardless of its source or structure—can be a powerful vehicle for emotion, transformation, and enlightenment. As we stand on the cusp of these new auditory frontiers, the only certainty is that sound will continue to surprise and inspire.

  • Invisible Choirs: Music of the Forgotten

    Invisible Choirs: Music of the Forgotten

    In the intricate tapestry of human civilization, certain voices persistently echo through the corridors of history, while others dissolve into whispers. These are the voices of the “Invisible Choirs”—those who are forgotten by time yet once sang resoundingly during their era. The music they left behind, though nearly lost, provides a rich symphony of cultural and emotional expression worthy of exploration.

    The Echoes of the Past

    Throughout history, countless communities have offered their songs to the world, only to have them overshadowed by dominant cultures. Indigenous music, for instance, often carried through generations orally, is one example of these fading symphonies. Many traditional songs have vanished due to colonization and cultural assimilation, leaving only remnants in the memories of the elderly or in obscure recordings.

    “The culture of a people lives in the hearts and in the soul of its people,” said Mahatma Gandhi. As cultures fade, so do their songs, unless we revive them.

    The Healing Power of Music

    Studies have shown that music serves not only as a cultural artifact but also as a therapeutic tool. According to the American Music Therapy Association, music can be a powerful tool in processing emotions, fostering communities, and restoring mental health. This idea resonates deeply when applied to the music of forgotten communities, which holds the potential to reconnect individuals to their heritage and heal generational traumas.

    Organizations worldwide are now striving to bring these ancient songs back into the light. By leveraging modern technology and platforms, groups like the Association for Cultural Equity work tirelessly to document and preserve the musical expressions of lesser-known societies.

    Revival and Reconnection

    In recent years, there has been a resurgence of interest in reviving forgotten music. Globalization and digital archives have enabled enthusiasts and scholars alike to discover and celebrate these invisible choirs. By doing so, they forge pathways of understanding and appreciation between disparate cultures. Younger generations, in particular, are rediscovering their roots by uncovering these musical treasures, infusing them with contemporary elements to ensure their survival and relevance.

    • Online platforms and collaborations are making global access to these songs easier.
    • Music festivals and documentaries focused on forgotten cultures are gaining popularity.
    • Educational initiatives are integrating these histories into school curriculums.

    The Call to Action

    The journey of these invisible choirs teaches us about our shared human experience, encompassing both joy and suffering. By listening and preserving their music, we ensure that these voices are silent no more. Let us be the custodians of history, remembering that every song, no matter how quiet it may seem, adds to the harmony of our collective past.

  • Songs from the Hollow: Experimental Music

    Songs from the Hollow: Experimental Music

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  • Ghost Notes: Musical Experiments

    Ghost Notes: Musical Experiments

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