Shackleton Part 10 – Escape from the Ice: A Survivor's Story

The latest track in the Shackleton series is out!

Shackleton’s Elephant Island Escape from the Ice – Captain Frank Worsley’s Voice from 100 Years Ago

Listen now on Spotify

"Shackleton Part 10 – Escape from the Ice: A Survivor's Story"

Track 10 tells the dramatic tale of the 28 men finally breaking free from the ice and making their way to Elephant Island.

This part of the journey is often overshadowed by bigger moments like the Endurance being crushed or the South Georgia crossing, but it was just as intense. They camped on a breaking iceberg, barely survived the freezing ocean, and endured four days of relentless cold, hunger, and exhaustion. It's another incredible chapter in their fight for survival, and there's no better way to experience it than through the voice of someone who was there.

The Voice of Frank Worsley – Captain of the Endurance

When I started this project, I had no idea that a recording existed of Frank Worsley from almost 100 years ago, the captain of the Endurance, recounting these events in his own words. But I found one, a firsthand account of exactly what happened, from someone who lived it and was there.

Where Did This Recording Come From?

Frank Hurley, the expedition's photographer, captured incredible movie footage during the early part of the journey before it became a survival mission. But back then, films were silent. In 1933, when sound technology advanced, a documentary was released with Worsley narrating over a piano soundtrack, telling the story from his perspective. As there so so much public interest.

Until only the last few months, isolating his voice from that background piano music would have been impossible. But with new modern technology, I was able to strip away 95% of the piano and clean up the audio, bringing his words to life like never before. It's really exciting to bring this story to life.

Statue of Frank Worsley, Akaroa, South Island, New Zealand

Bringing Worsley's Words to Life

This track isn't so much about the music it's about the story. Worsley's vivid storytelling made it clear that his voice needed to take centre stage. Finding the right musical backdrop was a challenge it had to stay subtle and let his words shine.

I hope you enjoy this piece of history, "The voice of the Kiwi captain on the Endurance Frank Worsley", recounting the fight for survival in his own words. It's a priceless glimpse into one of the greatest adventure stories ever told.

Thank you for listening.

Tony

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