Krakatau

The mighty volcano known as Krakatau has long been a source of fascination and fear for those who live near its slopes. The mere mention of its name conjures up images of fiery eruptions and massive explosions. But perhaps even more iconic than its visual display is the sound that accompanies its activity. The low rumble of molten lava churning deep within its bowels can be heard for miles around, a constant reminder of the power that lies dormant beneath the surface. And when Krakatau finally does let loose its fury, the sound is deafening - a deafening roar that echoes through the land like thunder, shaking the very ground beneath your feet. But it is not just the deep rumble of the volcano itself that is associated with Krakatau. There is another sound that is often heard in connection with this mighty mountain - the "Kiw kiw krakatau" cry of the native birds that call its slopes home. These birds are as much a part of the landscape as the volcano itself, their shrill calls piercing the air as they swoop and glide above the smoking crater. Their cries can be heard even when Krakatau is silent, a constant presence that serves as a reminder of the life that thrives in even the most inhospitable of environments. For those who have witnessed an eruption of Krakatau firsthand, the sounds that accompany such an event are unlike anything else on Earth. The roar of the lava as it flows down the mountainside, the crackling of burning trees and vegetation, the hiss of steam and ash as they are ejected into the sky - these are the sounds of a primal force unleashed, a reminder of the awesome power of nature. And underlying it all is the constant rumble of the volcano itself, a deep bass note that seems to reverberate in your very bones. But it is not just the cacophony of destruction that is associated with Krakatau. There are moments of eerie beauty as well, sounds that seem almost otherworldly in their complexity. The howl of the wind as it rushes past the mountain's peak, the tinkling of rock and crystal as they are hurled into the air, the strange whistling sound of gases escaping from deep within the earth - these are the sounds of a world in turmoil, a symphony of chaos and creation that is as mesmerizing as it is terrifying. If you want to experience the sounds of Krakatau for yourself, you can play and download them here. Close your eyes and let yourself be transported to the slopes of this legendary volcano, where the earth itself seems to sing with the power of a thousand storms. Listen to the rumble of the lava, the cry of the birds, the roar of the eruption - and know that you are hearing the voice of Krakatau itself, speaking in a language as old as time.