In-Depth Analysis of Track 14: "Morning High"

Track Details:
• Title: Morning High
• Duration: 3:03
• Music By: Nicky Skopelitis
• Read By: Patti Smith, Lizzy Mercier Descloux
• Additional Guitar: Oliver Ray

Full Lyrics of "Morning High":
*Approximation based on auditory transcription and poetic interpretation:*

"Oh my good, oh my beautiful, enter the atrocious street band, Where I won't stumble, the very wrecker of the unattainable alchemy on the markless body. For the first time, it all started. Unique laughter of children, but it will end with them, This poison will remain in the veins even as the music sours and pours into chaos. Now dignified, now dignified, we receive these tortures, this host, this promise, This promise to our created body and soul, this promise, this promise, This madness, this elegance, science, violence, this promise That the tree of life will be buried, tyrannical good will exile, So I can bring forth pure love, pure love, pure love. It all started with disgust, and it will stop because it can't catch up with eternity. It will end with a retreat of perfumes. Laughter of children, discretion of slaves, austerity of virgins. Horror of the figure and objects here sacred you are, the memory of last night. It all started with the mask and ends being next to the flame, next to the face, Little white knight, little drunkenness, how holy you were, If only for the mask you gratify, we affirm your method. We do not forget, do not forget, that yesterday you glorified all of our ages. With poison. We know how you suffered fully every day. Come time to face the substance."

Introduction:
"Morning High" is the fourteenth track on Hashisheen: The End of Law, a conceptual album blending spoken word, ambient soundscapes, and poetic introspection to explore the history, mysticism, and philosophy of the Hashshashin (Assassins). Featuring the iconic voices of Patti Smith and Lizzy Mercier Descloux, this track is a meditative exploration of transformation, renewal, and spiritual duality. Its evocative language and atmospheric music invite the listener to reflect on the cyclical nature of life and the tension between innocence and corruption.

With musical composition by Nicky Skopelitis and additional guitar by Oliver Ray, "Morning High" combines lyrical depth with ethereal instrumentation. The result is a poignant meditation on the existential struggles of the human condition.

Thematic Exploration:
• Transformation and Renewal:
Reflects on the cyclical nature of existence, where beginnings are inextricably linked to endings. The imagery of children’s laughter symbolizes innocence and the promise of renewal, while the "poison" suggests the inevitability of corruption and decay.

• Innocence and Corruption:
Highlights the fragility of innocence and the pervasive influence of suffering. Yet, amidst this tension, the promise of "pure love" emerges as a redemptive force.

• Duality of Existence:
Explores the dualities that define human experience—madness and elegance, science and violence. Suggests a journey from concealment to truth.

• Mystical Reckoning and Substance:
Aligns with mystical traditions that emphasize confronting one's illusions and embracing the essence of existence.

Musical Composition:
• Atmospheric Soundscape:
Ambient elements create a meditative soundscape, reflecting themes of introspection and transcendence.

• Guitar Work:
Nicky Skopelitis provides melodic textures, while Oliver Ray adds harmonic depth.

Spoken Word Analysis:
• Patti Smith’s Contribution:
Delivers the poem with passion and emotional depth, drawing listeners into the narrative.

• Lizzy Mercier Descloux’s Contribution:
Adds a multicultural layer, enriching the emotional depth and creating a dialogue-like structure.

Interpretative Analysis:
• Hope and Rejuvenation:
Invokes dawn as a symbol of new beginnings.

• Inner Exploration:
Encourages listeners to confront their own masks and embrace self-discovery.

• Universality and Unity:
Bridges cultural and philosophical divides, reflecting interconnected human experiences.

Emotional and Psychological Impact:
• Atmosphere of Serenity:
Fosters calm and introspection through ethereal music.

• Inspirational Quality:
Offers hope and redemption despite darker imagery.

• Catharsis:
Provides an emotional release through the interplay of innocence and corruption.

Contribution to the Album’s Cohesion:
Reinforces the album’s themes of mysticism and personal insight while adding a reflective counterpoint to narrative-driven tracks.

Reflective Questions for the Listener:
• How do the recurring images of poison and masks resonate with your understanding of transformation and truth?
• In what ways does the interplay between spoken word and music evoke a sense of renewal?
• How does "Morning High" encourage you to reflect on your own experiences of innocence, growth, and redemption?

Conclusion:
"Morning High" is a luminous, introspective piece that captures the essence of renewal, duality, and spiritual reckoning. Through its poetic narration, ambient soundscapes, and layered guitar work, it invites listeners to explore the cyclical nature of life and the transformative power of love and self-discovery. This track stands as a testament to the enduring power of art to inspire, challenge, and connect across cultures and experiences.