Aqueous Transmission

"Aqueous Transmission" is the final song off of Incubus's 2001 album Morning View. It is notable for its length (7:46), calm sound, and stylistic elements. While not released as a single, "Aqueous Transmission" has gained a cult-like underground following among music fans for its peaceful sound and relaxing aura. Additionally, the final minute of the song consists entirely of croaking frogs recorded outside the Malibu mansion where the song was recorded.

Asian Influence

The song's distinctive introduction is the sound of a kokyu (a traditional Japanese stringed instrument), which was lent to the band by Steve Vai. The main introductory riff, consisting of a simple 17-note progression, is repeated throughout most of the song.

Brandon Boyd on Aqueous Transmission

Brandon Boyd, Incubus' lead singer, had the following to say:

"Perhaps our most ambitious work to date, was first conceived with an instrument quite alien to Incubus and all of rock music to be precise. A 'Ko-kyu' is what was used here and it was donated by a very generous and talented man by the name of Steve Vai. One late evening we began conjuring and experimenting with this track and it quickly brought to mind the image and analogy of floating freely down a river; hence the content of the song. Our friend Suzi Katayama, who has in the past worked string arrangements with the likes of Bjork, Madonna and even Yours Truly for an acoustic performance in LA, lent her classical finesse to this story. And in doing so helped it become exactly what we envisioned; a song so atmospheric and vibratory, it would make those who listened to it doze off into a land of rivers, kung fu and unicorns, eventually making the listener pee in her/his pants."

External links

• Further Down the River Fanlisting for "Aqueous Transmission"