Of Signals and Systems with Nolan Lem (Sound Researcher and Auditory Artist)
Love Music More · hosted by Luke F. Walton (Scoobert Doobert)
Guest: Nolan Lem
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Topics discussed
Host note
In this episode of Love Music More, we are thrilled to welcome Nolan Lem, a sound researcher and auditory artist whose work offers fresh insights into the interplay between sound and technology. Nolan's unique journey spans jazz performance, electrical engineering, and sound art, opening the door to new sonic experiences that challenge our understanding of music and sound production. Prepare to delve into his innovative approach to immersive audio-visual environments and how he melds artistic expression with technical expertise.
We explore how sound can influence perception and create emotional memories, and how Nolan's journey from jazz performance through electrical engineering to sound art research informs the work he's doing now.
Selected moments
- Nolan's diverse background 3:03 Nolan discusses his unique combination of music and technical skills.
- The foundation of his love for jazz 4:18 Nolan reflects on his early passion for jazz music.
- Transition to professional music 5:49 Nolan explains his journey from university to touring professionally.
- Importance of engineering in music 8:29 He describes how electrical engineering complements his music career.
- Exploring auditory textures 16:45 Nolan talks about how we perceive sounds and textures.
- Physical computing and sound art 11:14 He shares insights on creating sound through physical interactions.
- Binaural sound experiences 35:48 Nolan elaborates on the complexities of producing binaural audio.
- Challenges in sound design 42:36 He speaks about the challenges and joys of working with kinetic sounds.
- The emotional connection to sound 41:16 Nolan discusses how sound evokes emotional responses in audiences.
- The essence of music and presence 57:28 He shares his core belief about music bringing us into the moment.
Selected excerpts
I’ve always been a huge jazz fan, I mean I still am; I actually still play. It's always been a huge passion, so I went to jazz school...
From a young age, I really wanted to play saxophone or drums. I chose saxophone...
I stayed in Miami for a year after [music school] and was just playing gigs...
It was kind of a nice balance between exploring intellectual curiosities with things that I could relate to a future in music...
Most of my work that I make now that deals with sound... sound is produced purely just mechanically...
There's a lot of trust and a lot of art to the sonification...
FAQ
What does Nolan Lem do as a sound researcher?
Nolan Lem specializes in creating immersive audio-visual environments, combining technology and sound research to explore new auditory experiences.
How does Nolan Lem integrate engineering and music?
Nolan uses his background in electrical engineering to inform his approach to sound art, allowing him to create complex sound systems and interactive pieces.
Why is improvisation important to Nolan's work?
Nolan emphasizes improvisation as a core aspect of his musical journey, reflecting its significance in both jazz and experimental music.
Curated notes only — no public transcript. Listen on the links above.