Stories with Tag Experimental Music

• My stupid noise journey

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  Posted: 2025-03-09 10:06:27

  Verbose tl;dr

  Frustrated with noisy neighbors, the author embarked on a quest to identify and mitigate the bothersome sounds. This involved experimenting with various soundproofing methods, including strategically placed acoustic panels, weather stripping, and mass-loaded vinyl. Through trial and error, and using tools like a decibel meter and spectrum analyzer, they pinpointed the noise sources as plumbing and HVAC systems within their building. Although not entirely successful in eliminating the noise, the author significantly reduced it and learned valuable lessons about sound transmission and mitigation techniques. They document their process, expenses, and results, offering a practical guide for others facing similar noise issues.

  The author embarks upon a protracted and self-deprecatingly termed "stupid" odyssey into the realm of procedural noise generation. Initially captivated by the mesmerizing visuals produced by such algorithms, they set out to comprehend the underlying mathematical principles governing their creation. This journey commences with a rudimentary implementation of Perlin noise, a technique renowned for its ability to generate natural-looking textures and patterns. The author meticulously documents their progression, highlighting the incremental improvements and occasional setbacks encountered along the way.

  Dissatisfied with merely replicating existing methodologies, the author endeavors to devise their own unique approach to noise generation. This ambition leads them down a path of experimentation, exploring various mathematical functions and transformations in search of novel aesthetic outcomes. They delve into the intricacies of domain warping, a technique that allows for the manipulation and distortion of noise patterns, thereby introducing a greater degree of artistic control. Through painstaking trial and error, the author refines their understanding of how different warping functions influence the final output, showcasing a diverse array of resulting textures.

  Further pursuing their quest for originality, the author investigates the potential of higher-dimensional noise. This exploration involves extending the principles of two-dimensional noise generation into three-dimensional space, introducing an additional layer of complexity to the algorithms. The author grapples with the challenges of visualizing and manipulating these higher-dimensional noise fields, ultimately achieving success in generating intricate and visually compelling volumetric textures.

  Throughout this extensive undertaking, the author maintains a spirit of open-mindedness and a willingness to embrace the unexpected. They acknowledge the inherent unpredictability of their experimental approach, relishing the serendipitous discoveries that emerge from their explorations. The author concludes their narrative by reflecting on the lessons learned and the profound satisfaction derived from the creative process itself, emphasizing the value of exploration and experimentation in the pursuit of artistic expression.

  • noise music
  • Experimental Music
  • Sound Design
  • electronic music
  • music journey
  • personal narrative
  • creative process
  • audio exploration
  • diy music
  • sound art

  Summary of Comments ( 94 )
  https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=43307751

  Verbose tl;dr

  Hacker News users generally praised the author's clear writing style and relatable experience with noise reduction. Several commenters shared similar struggles and offered additional tips, like using earplugs with varying noise reduction ratings for different situations, and exploring active noise cancellation headphones with specific features like transparency mode. Some highlighted the importance of addressing the underlying causes of noise sensitivity, while others discussed the psychological benefits of silence. A few pointed out potential downsides of noise cancellation, such as a feeling of isolation or difficulty perceiving crucial environmental sounds. The overall sentiment was positive, with many appreciating the author's vulnerability and practical advice.

  The Hacker News post "My stupid noise journey" (https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=43307751) sparked a discussion with several interesting comments related to the author's experience with noise functions and graphical outputs.

  One commenter highlights the author's eventual realization that they were essentially recreating Perlin noise, pointing out that reinventing the wheel can be a valuable learning experience. They emphasize the importance of understanding the underlying principles rather than simply using a library, echoing the author's own sentiment. This commenter also suggests exploring Simplex noise as a potentially more performant alternative to Perlin noise.

  Another commenter appreciates the author's candid narrative of their journey, finding it relatable and refreshing. They specifically commend the author's honesty about the struggles and the iterative process involved in understanding complex concepts.

  A further comment delves into the technical aspects of noise generation, explaining the concept of "tiling" and how it contributes to the seamless patterns seen in noise functions. They elaborate on how different basis functions can affect the final output, contributing to the visual characteristics of the noise.

  Several commenters discuss the educational value of the author's exploration, emphasizing that struggling through and eventually understanding a concept is a powerful way to learn. They commend the author for sharing their process, as it normalizes the struggles that many programmers face.

  One commenter mentions the potential applications of noise in procedural generation, suggesting its use in creating realistic textures and terrain. They briefly touch on the broader field of procedural content generation and its increasing relevance in game development and other creative fields.

  Finally, a commenter shares a link to a resource related to Value Noise, offering additional information for those interested in delving deeper into the topic. This provides an avenue for readers to expand their knowledge beyond the scope of the original article and the subsequent discussion.

• 1977 Jazz-Funk Musical Adaptation of Dune by David Matthews

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  Posted: 2025-02-19 14:29:11

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  In 1977, French composer David Matthews created a jazz-funk concept album inspired by Frank Herbert's Dune. Commissioned for French radio, this pre-Lynch adaptation features a distinct 70s sound with synthesizers, electric piano, and a driving rhythm section. While incorporating elements of the novel's plot and characters like Paul Atreides and the Fremen, Matthews focuses more on evoking the atmosphere and themes of Arrakis, using original compositions with titles like "The Ceremony of the Sand" and "The Voice of Muad'Dib." This rarely-heard musical interpretation of Dune offers a unique and intriguing alternative to other adaptations.

  In the annals of unusual artistic endeavors, one particular project stands out as a peculiar and largely forgotten artifact of the late 1970s: a jazz-funk musical adaptation of Frank Herbert's epic science fiction novel, Dune, composed by David Matthews. This intriguing work, dating back to 1977, predates both the well-known David Lynch film adaptation and the more recent Denis Villeneuve version, offering a drastically different interpretation of Herbert's complex narrative.

  Matthews, a British composer known for his eclectic musical style, embarked on this ambitious project, seemingly captivated by the rich and multifaceted world Herbert had created. He envisioned translating the sprawling saga of Arrakis, its warring factions, and the messianic rise of Paul Atreides, into a vibrant musical experience infused with the rhythmic dynamism of jazz and the infectious grooves of funk. This fusion of genres, popular in the 70s, provided a unique sonic landscape against which to reimagine the political intrigue, ecological complexities, and spiritual awakenings that permeate Herbert's narrative.

  While the full extent of the musical's development remains somewhat shrouded in mystery, Open Culture sheds light on its existence through the presentation of several surviving tracks. These audio fragments offer tantalizing glimpses into Matthews' interpretation of Dune, showcasing his compositional approach and hinting at the potential scale of the intended production. Titles like "The Fremen," "Chani," and "Spice," evoke key elements of the novel, suggesting that Matthews sought to capture the essence of the story through musical motifs and thematic exploration.

  Regrettably, the 1977 Dune musical seemingly never reached full fruition, remaining a fascinating what-if in the realm of science fiction adaptations. The reasons for its apparent abandonment remain unclear, leaving us to speculate about the challenges faced in bringing such a complex and ambitious project to the stage. Nevertheless, the surviving tracks serve as a testament to Matthews' artistic vision and provide a unique historical perspective on the enduring appeal of Herbert's masterpiece. They stand as a curious footnote in the history of Dune adaptations, offering a glimpse into an alternative path not taken, a sonic exploration of Arrakis through the lens of 1970s musical sensibilities. This almost-lost piece of cultural history invites listeners to imagine a Dune experienced not through visuals and dialogue, but through the evocative power of music, a truly unique and intriguing prospect.

  • Dune
  • David Matthews
  • Jazz
  • Funk
  • Musical
  • adaptation
  • 1977
  • Science Fiction
  • Open Culture
  • Soundtrack
  • Progressive Rock
  • Experimental Music

  Summary of Comments ( 3 )
  https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=43102491

  Verbose tl;dr

  Hacker News users discuss the surprising existence of a Dune musical by David Matthews, predating the Toto adaptation. Several express curiosity about its sound and availability, with some recalling Matthews' other works like the "Shookfoil" album. Others debate the legality and likelihood of a full release due to copyright issues with the Dune IP. The potential for a "so bad it's good" experience is also mentioned, while a few lament the missed opportunity of a French electronic music adaptation by Heldon. Some question if Matthews' involvement is a hoax, while others confirm his prolific career in library and experimental music. The overall sentiment is a mix of intrigue and skepticism.

  The Hacker News post titled "1977 Jazz-Funk Musical Adaptation of Dune by David Matthews" generated several comments discussing various aspects of the potential musical adaptation.

  Some users expressed excitement and curiosity about the project. One comment highlighted the intriguing combination of jazz-funk and the Dune universe, wondering how such a musical would translate the complex themes and atmosphere of the book. Another user expressed sheer disbelief and eagerness to hear the adaptation, while another simply stated their hope that it would be made available on streaming platforms. A commenter mentioned having seen a production of this adaptation back in the 70s, remembering it as being quite good but noting the difficulty of adapting such dense source material.

  Several comments focused on David Matthews, the composer. Some users pointed out that this was not the Dave Matthews of the Dave Matthews Band, but a different composer of the same name. This distinction led to some humorous remarks about the initial confusion and subsequent disappointment. One commenter shared an anecdote about a college radio DJ playing a cut from Matthews' Dune musical and jokingly attributing it to the more famous Dave Matthews, sparking interest among listeners.

  The discussion also touched upon the challenges of adapting Dune for different media. One user mentioned the inherent difficulty of translating the book's intricate plot and philosophical depth to other formats, while another expressed skepticism about the viability of a jazz-funk musical as a suitable medium for Dune. One commenter referenced Alejandro Jodorowsky's unsuccessful attempt to adapt Dune into a film, highlighting the complexity and ambition required for such a project. A different commenter referenced a different musical adaptation of Dune and stated that it "wasn't very good."

  Finally, some comments provided further information about David Matthews and his work. One commenter mentioned that Matthews was known for his work in theater and had composed music for other productions. Another shared a link to Matthews' website, enabling other users to explore his other projects and compositions.