PODCAST:The Intelligence from The Economist
TITLE:The Weekend Intelligence: As ignorable as it is interesting
DATE:2023-12-30 00:00:00
URL:
MODEL:gpt-4-gizmo
The "Weekend Intelligence" episode of "The Intelligence" podcast, hosted by Ora Ogumbi, delves into the world of ambient music, its impact on listeners, and its evolution over time. The episode is narrated by Tom Nutter, who shares his personal experiences and insights into the genre. Ambient music, known for its calming and euphoric qualities, has gained popularity for enhancing focus and inducing productivity. It's often used as a background sound to minimize distractions, especially in work environments.
Nutter's journey begins with his move to Berlin, where he discovers the soothing effects of ambient music. He explores the historical roots of the genre, tracing it back to the late 1970s with Brian Eno's "Ambient 1: Music for Airports." Eno's work was a response to the lack of thoughtful soundscapes in public spaces, like airports. The album established ambient music as a genre that can accommodate various levels of listening attention, being both ignorable and interesting.
The podcast also covers the use of ambient music by writers like Harry Kunzru and musicians like Julianne Barwick, emphasizing its role in creating a conducive environment for concentration and creativity. Kunzru, for instance, finds ambient music helpful in blocking out distractions in his busy Brooklyn neighborhood.
Nutter reflects on the genre's evolution, noting its shift from a niche interest to mainstream popularity, especially during the pandemic. People turned to ambient music for solace amid uncertainty and anxiety. The episode highlights the genre's diverse applications, from enhancing personal experiences to being used in public spaces like Muji stores or in experimental projects like gong baths.
The rise of streaming services has further popularized ambient music, with playlists curated for specific moods or activities becoming common. However, this trend raises concerns about the commodification of the genre, as expressed by musicians like Tim Hecker and Callie Malone. They worry that the artistic value of ambient music is being overshadowed by its utility as background noise for productivity or relaxation.
Despite these concerns, the podcast concludes on a hopeful note, suggesting that ambient music will continue to evolve and find new ways to engage listeners. The episode is a testament to the genre's enduring appeal and its ability to adapt to changing cultural landscapes.
