Asmus Tietchens - Seuchengebiete 2 (1992)

Tietchens' second exploration of the "infested areas" focuses on the actual physical processes of water running through wastepipes, and the noises that these actions generate. The basic sounds were recorded on a three track tape machine via two condenser microphones and one contact microphone. The captured sounds have been treated and processed extensively to achieve a remarkable end product.

Some noises are processed more than others, having the effect of transforming the watery sounds into harp-like string arrangements. At other times, insect communication, a hive of subterranean activity, an insistent vibration pervades the track Hydrophonie 12. Hydrophonie 8 patters along incessantly, glass shivers, ice melts. I swear I could hear voices in there! Tietchens stresses that there is no message to be found in this recording. The result is enthralling. Matthew Riley

1. Hydrophonie 13
2. Hydrophonie 8
3. Hydrophonie 11
4. Hydrophonie 12

Recorded in Audiplex Studios, Hamburg.
Produced by Okko Bekker.
Released by Syrenia Records in 1992.

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