Exploring the Unique Pitchblack Playback Experience in Helsinki
A room full of stars: Sanjoy Narayan writes on the Pitchblack Playback experience
Hindustan Times
Image: Hindustan Times
In Helsinki, a unique listening event called Pitchblack Playback allowed attendees to experience The Who's album 'Who's Next' in complete darkness, enhancing their perception of the music. Participants, ranging from seniors to young goths, were immersed in a communal silence that revealed new layers of sound, demonstrating the power of deep listening.
- 01The event featured The Who's album 'Who's Next', played in its entirety in a darkened cinema setting.
- 02Pitchblack Playback was founded by DJ and producer Ben Gomori in London in 2016 and has expanded to cities like New York, Paris, and Tokyo.
- 03Participants included a diverse audience, from seniors to individuals with mobility challenges, all experiencing music in a new way.
- 04The event emphasizes the importance of listening without distractions, contrasting with algorithm-driven music platforms.
- 05Upcoming sessions will feature other classic albums, such as Marvin Gaye's 'What's Going On'.
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In a unique event held in Helsinki, attendees participated in Pitchblack Playback, where they listened to The Who's iconic album 'Who's Next' in complete darkness at the Gilda cinema. The experience stripped away visual distractions, allowing listeners to engage deeply with the music. As the opening notes of 'Baba O’Riley' filled the room, participants discovered new nuances and textures in the album that they had never noticed before, highlighting the transformative power of focused listening. The event attracted a diverse crowd, including seniors and individuals with disabilities, all united in their appreciation for music. Pitchblack Playback, initiated by DJ Ben Gomori in London, aims to create a communal listening experience devoid of interruptions, contrasting sharply with the personalized playlists generated by streaming algorithms. The next session will feature Marvin Gaye’s 'What's Going On', promising another opportunity for attendees to experience familiar music in an entirely new light.
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The Pitchblack Playback experience fosters a deeper appreciation for music among attendees, encouraging community engagement and cultural enrichment in Helsinki.
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