Background

The Deep Rhythm Project (DRP) is both a techno-cultural interrogation and an attempt to explore a new aesthetic. We begin with a suspicion that a common architecture of work (corporate in nature, technological in expression), bonded with a common interface (the keyboard, mouse, and software), and delivered through increasingly common communication media, creates a deep rhythm in postindustrial information-based societies. This deep rhythm, produced through our interactions with one another and our machines, expresses both the commonalities of these interactions and the singularities that our cultural and social milieus offer. Beyond this interrogation, DRP is also an exploration of a global music aesthetic created and perpetuated through this highly structured but individuated human/machine interactivity. By revealing the rhythm, and offering it as raw material to performers, the Project will encourage the creation of performances based on truly universal themes.

How does it work?

Initially, we’ve identified four primary vectors for exploration: mouse clicks, internet access, CPU utilization, and memory utilization. As these (or other selected) events take place on a client computer, they are captured and sent to the DRP server where they are converted into instrumental sounds and notes. DRP will require client development, server development, data to music translation (MIDI perhaps?), and steaming services for the generated music.

Currently there is only the idea; developers who are interested in creating both a new aesthetic and undertaking an interesting programming project are encouraged to help. We’re putting together some documentation, but in the meantime, get in touch if you are interested.