5. Angeles National Forest: Tujunga Creek

Recorded in Vogel Canyon near Big Tujunga Creek in the Angeles National Forest. As we begin our hike, the sun rises over distant peaks. Being outside feels illicit. We see several helicopters. Perhaps they are looking for people in restricted areas? Although unmarked, the trail seems well traveled, and passing someone here would be like passing them on an airplane aisle. As 7:30 rolls around, we hear voices in the distance and decide to turn around. Fortunately, we see no one on the way back down. Before leaving, we see another road and decide to explore Big Tujunga Creek, whose banks are wide and perfect for social distancing. We walk along the creek and sit on a rock, taking in the morning light and the sounds of the water. It’s not long before this soundscape is interrupted by a helicopter. But instead of fading into the distance as usual, the chopper gets louder and louder until it is flying directly over us. It flies off, but then turns back and flies overhead again, and then again a third time, getting closer and closer to us with each pass. We take this as a sign and quickly gather our things. As we speed walk back to the car, we’re relieved to see the helicopter fly off for good. More info at http://tovar.io/newtopophonics