The age of ever-increasing connectedness carries with it a troubling dichotomy: the easier it becomes to communicate the increasingly isolated we feel.

Cantus first conceived of this conceptual concert in 2016, intending to reflect the tension in our modern society between technological connectedness and human longing for genuine in-person interaction. We’ve never been able to communicate as quickly or efficiently across distance through the internet and social media. We’ve seen new art forms take shape, new types of communities form, and new ways of living that were inconceivable even 50 years ago.

And yet at the same time, we seem to be facing unprecedented mental health crises. The documentary Social Dilemma reveals that in 2010 when Facebook and Twitter became available on mobile phones, pre-teen self-harm rates tripled, and there was a 150 percent increase in deaths by suicide. Clearly, this digital revolution has come with unforeseen consequences.

Alone together has taken on a whole new context and meaning since March 2020. Although the original themes remain, the pandemic has—in some ways—turned the concept on its head. Instead of a deterrent to connectedness, technology has sometimes been the only tool to help us maintain community and relationships.

This album is a journey that reflects upon isolation and connectedness in our world. We hope that you find moments for beauty and introspection, both familiar and new.