Sam Parker reveals how field recordings in Japan taught him to sort familiar from unfamiliar sounds.
This episode features host Jeff Emtman reflecting on field recording and deep listening during his trips to Germany. He is joined by his former teacher and friend, sound artist Sam Parker, who previously contributed recordings from Japan. Their conversation explores how to authentically capture and process new auditory environments.
Jeff seeks Sam's advice on how to approach listening while traveling to a new country. Sam references his own project recording everyday routines and interactions with objects in Japan. He discusses the concept of "deep listening," a term coined by artist Pauline Oliveros, describing it as a trainable, intentional practice. Jeff records ambient sounds from Berlin, including airport announcements, news reports about COVID-19 vaccines, and classical radio. A personal conversation with his girlfriend, Johanna, reveals her perspective on the stimulating challenge of living in Berlin.
Sam suggests that field recordings help sort the familiar from the unfamiliar, a process he found meaningful as someone of half-Japanese heritage. He argues that interesting patterns emerge from mundane routines if one listens long enough. Jeff decides the core story of his work is simply "time passing," which he finds beautiful. The episode includes promotional content thanking Patreon supporters like Julian Pratley and Kit Roberts for making the independent show feasible. Jeff is releasing the episode's raw recordings as a Bandcamp album under his pseudonym, The Black Spot, with initial profits donated to the Red Cross.
The tone is reflective, intimate, and meandering, blending philosophical conversation with immersive soundscapes. Its style is conversational and diary-like, prioritizing personal introspection over a structured narrative. Listeners interested in ambient sound, audio art, and meditative reflections on place and perception would enjoy this episode. Those seeking a clear, plot-driven story or fast-paced interviews might find it too slow or abstract.
