Mirror Image represents the latest and most profound evolution of Echo Collective, a duo that continues to redefine the boundaries of contemporary experimental classical music. Founded by Margaret Hermant and Neil Leiter, Echo Collective has consistently pushed the limits of musical exploration, and this album stands as a testament to their deepening artistic dialogue and unwavering creative synergy.
In Mirror Image, Margaret and Neil embark on a transformative journey, seamlessly blending contemporary classical compositions with mesmerizing, immersive soundscapes. This collection of deeply personal and introspective pieces emerges from an intricate tapestry of acoustic exploration, crafted in some of Europe’s most evocative and resonant spaces. Their collaboration with renowned sound engineer Fabien Leseure has been instrumental in capturing the essence of these environments and translating them into powerful musical narratives.
The foundation of this album was laid in cutting-edge immersive audio environments. Echo Collective delved into the 4DSound system at Monom in Berlin, a pioneering space where sound moves freely in a three-dimensional field, enveloping listeners in a fully immersive experience. They also explored the DNB Soundscape at CCHasselt in Belgium, which allowed them to experiment with dynamic spatial audio techniques. Additionally, their collaboration with the AOI dance company in Chatham, UK, introduced them to Wave Field Synthesis, a revolutionary method of sound production that creates precise, spatially accurate audio fields. These innovative technologies became vital tools in shaping the sonic architecture of Mirror Image.
Inspired by these immersive experiences, Echo Collective meticulously recorded the album in a variety of acoustically rich and inspiring locations. Each recording space was carefully chosen for its unique character, atmosphere, and acoustic properties, contributing distinct textures and dimensions to the music. These settings included a historic library in Ravenna, Italy, whose high ceilings and ancient frescoes imbued the sound with reverence and depth; a secluded church in the Belgian countryside where Margaret spent her childhood, offering a serene and intimate acoustic backdrop; the eclectic La Savonnerie and Dada Studio in Brussels, both known for fostering creative innovation; and the comfort of their own home, where familiarity allowed for unfiltered emotional expression.
One of the album’s defining moments came with the spontaneous creation of the track Dante. Recorded in a single take during an impromptu improvisation session in the Ravenna library, this piece captures the raw, unfiltered energy of the moment. Margaret describes it as an alignment of timing, energy, and creativity—an embodiment of the organic and intuitive nature that defines much of Mirror Image.
Beyond its technical achievements, Mirror Image is a deeply emotional work that mirrors the evolving relationship and artistic identity of Margaret and Neil. Their shared history—from their classical training to their collaborations with genre pioneers like A Winged Victory for the Sullen, Jóhann Jóhannsson, and Erasure—culminates in this record. It embodies years of growth, experimentation, and an unyielding commitment to musical exploration.
This release also marks Echo Collective’s debut on the esteemed Naïve label, a partnership that celebrates the duo’s dedication to innovation and their respect for musical tradition. Echo Collective views this collaboration as a point of pride, recognizing the label’s rich history of eclectic and boundary-pushing artists.
To bring Mirror Image to life beyond the studio, Echo Collective will with the support of 4dsound and accompanied by Fabien Leseure, present a groundbreaking live experience where the audience surrounds the performers, dissolving the traditional boundaries between artist and listener. This tourable 4dsound immersive setup will adapt to diverse venues—from intimate studios to grand theaters—ensuring that each performance fully conveys the album’s intoxicating and enveloping soundscapes.
