Ecstatic Erotica CD
It's somewhere between an audio-book and a musical CD, combining a poetic erotica novella with middle eastern music.
The backstory to this piece is that I was invited to perform at an erotic Shibari (Japanese rope bondage) performance in June this year. I wanted to explore the concept of surrender, and what it means in a spiritual sense through the eyes of Sufism. Three Dervishes Die a Beautiful Death was the result. Coming from an Adults Only night, it is an Adults Only piece, driven by sensuality and violence, though all held within the loving compass of spirit. Three Sufi teaching stories form the basic structure of the piece, though any embellishments, mistakes and allusions to bondage erotica are mine.
The story revolves around a beautiful and uncompromisingly strong queen. She deals ruthlessly with the dervishes who seek her out, testing their sincerity and commitment. Essentially the piece is an exploration of shadow, and how we can remain in love with a world that can often be cruel and senseless.
I’ve received a lot of great feedback on the piece, and now I’m looking to record it. I’ve approached Shai Shriki – one of the most talented oud players in the country – to compose and produce the music.

This campaign is about making that recording happen.
Special shout out to Hannaka Johnson (The Feather Collector) for helping make this happen and keeping me inspired and focused. And special thanks to Anna-ki, my wife and queen of my heart, who is the inspiration for the queen in all her ball-breaking beauty.

Testimonials
-- Peter Hunt, Kooii
"Thomas has a voice that carries you through landscapes of imaginary worlds, and he has a way of seducing you, just through his presence on stage. You you feel he is reading your thoughts aloud, but in a more profound and expressive way than you ever could yourself. Three Dervishes was a beautiful addition to the Shibari night, and helped give the night extra depth and richness."
-- Debbie Buck, Evolve Sphere
"Thomas Keily's work churns with an earnest pathos, imploring us all to feel something, to risk an honest interaction, so that we may receive the divinity of a love born out of surrender. I have witnessed Thomas' work and performed along side him for over a decade now and I know his industrious approach to creativity will cultivate this project into a gift to all soulful lovers."
-- Bravo Child, Visionary Play Artist
"Without any exaggeration i can say that I have seen Thomas move entire audiences to states of roaring rapturous ecstasy with his rich voice; his wild, visceral performance; his beauty & intent & his glorious, magical words. Hundreds & hundreds of people literally roaring with ecstasy. People crying, people screaming, people tearing off clothing. I have also seen him, in quieter & more intimate moments, produce soft - almost hypnotic states with his readings .. states most certainly of arousal, of deep blissful contemplation, of joy. Thomas is really quite a magical being. His wordsmithery & performance powers are quite unbelievable."
-- Zackari Watt - Festival & Events Director / Creative Director at The Follower Newspaper / Friend
How The Funds Will Be Used
$1300 - recording and mastering
$300 - distribution
The Challenges
We are aiming to block out a week in November to make it happen.
If we raise additional funds, these will be used to help with production and distribution.
Thanks for the love
Every bit helps, and I'm grateful for all the support I've ever received. I will take a moment to think of you fondly.
The Life Poetic
I will help you fall in love with poetry... again. Every week in 2016 I will send you a poem from the treasury of global literature, and try to show you why I think it's awesome/inspiring/heart-shattering. It will give you an insiders insight into the poetic arts.
Performance Edit
The full album-length recording as a digital download. Sink into a beautiful collaboration of rich writing and sensual music. BONUS option to 'The Life Poetic'
Adults Only Edit
Receive the performance edit PLUS an adults only addendum. Revel in a sensitive description of soulful love making. 18+ BONUS option to 'The Life Poetic'.
Love Song Dedication
Two copies of the adults only edit, PLUS a personalised, husky-voiced dedication for your friend/lover/colleague. 2x BONUS options to 'The Life Poetic'.
Goldn Fiffo of Generosity
For those who like to give in round numbers. Adults only edit plus bonus option to 'The Life Poetic' PLUS a shout out from the rooftops of Facebook.
Love Song Dedication x2
Sometimes it takes more than two to tango. 3x copies of the performance edit, PLUS 2x personalised, husky-voiced dedications for your friends/lovers/colleagues. 3x BONUS options to 'The Life Poetic'.
Immortalised in Song
I will sing your praises in refined verse, celebrating your expansive heart, soaring spirit and exceptional vitality. A personally crafted gift to pass on to your grandchildren. Plus adults only edit and 'The Life Poetic'.
a love story for the ages
I will celebrate you and a lover of your choice in refined verse. I will celebrate the powerful bonds of love you share, the battles you have fought, and your legendary love-making achievements. PLUS 2x adults only edit + 'The Life Poetic'
Crimson Banner Patron
Special mention in all distribution of the final edits. Plus adults only edit and 'The Life Poetic'
Private Show
An intimate house concert for you and an unlimited number of friends. Includes, wine, candles and chocolate. (Travel costs by negotiation.)
Gold Banner Patron
Special mention in all distribution of the final edits. Plus adults only edit and 'The Life Poetic'
Epic Foot Rub
Epic Foot Rub. (Please. No weirdos).