The dynamic sounds of our planet are far more complex than what we can perceive. From the thunderous calving of glaciers to the crackling of wildfires and the fierce winds of storm fronts, these natural phenomena create an auditory tapestry. However, much of this acoustic energy is emitted at frequencies below human hearing, known as infrasound, which can travel vast distances due to their long wavelengths. Until recently, humans have been unable to experience this hidden symphony of the Earth.
Now, musician and artist Brian House has unveiled “Everyday Infrasound in an Uncertain World,” an innovative album that transforms 24 hours of infrasound recordings into a 24-minute auditory experience. Utilizing a unique set of macrophones, House captures these inaudible vibrations by funneling air into a specialized barometer that records data at an impressive rate of 100 times per second. By amplifying these sounds by a factor of 60, he makes them accessible to human ears. House expresses his fascination with the layers of perception that remain hidden from us, emphasizing the intriguing qualities of low and distant sounds.
While House’s project is rooted in artistic expression, it is also grounded in scientific advancements. Historical data shows that barometers have recorded significant events like the 1883 eruption of Krakatoa, and modern infrasound sensors play a crucial role in monitoring compliance with nuclear test ban treaties. Experts in the field, such as Leif Karlstrom, a volcanologist at the University of Oregon, have collaborated with House to refine his recording techniques and enhance his understanding of this elusive soundscape. The resulting music is an otherworldly blend of deep vibrations and ethereal whispers, inviting listeners to engage with the mysteries of the natural world. House aims to evoke a sense of unease yet connection, urging his audience to contemplate the deeper layers of existence that often go unnoticed.
Source: Listen to Earth’s rumbling, secret soundtrack via MIT Technology Review