‘Like an electrical gong bath!’ The Sheffield supermarket going viral for the symphonic sound of its freezers | Music

An unusual phenomenon is captivating residents of Sheffield, United Kingdom. The source of this attention isn’t a concert hall or music venue, but the freezer section of a Co-op supermarket on Ecclesall Road.

The Accidental Symphony

The story began in January when a Reddit user posted about the surprisingly pleasant sound emanating from the freezers, describing it as “like all the fans have been carefully tuned to the calmest droning chord ever.” The post quickly gained traction, with others sharing videos and debating the harmonic qualities of the sound. Some listeners detected potential musical keys, like C# major, or even fragments of familiar songs, such as Sinead O’Connor’s “Nothing Compares 2 U.”

Intrigued, one individual visited the Ecclesall Road Co-op to record the sound firsthand. The experience was described as immersive, akin to listening to an orchestra playing underwater. Staff members at the store were reportedly unaware of the attention the freezers were receiving, with some only noticing the sound after being prompted.

A History of Found Sounds

The Co-op freezer phenomenon taps into a long tradition of artists incorporating everyday sounds into their work. Italian futurist composer Luigi Russolo built noise generators in the early 20th century to replicate urban sounds. Later, composers like Pierre Schaeffer pioneered “musique concrète,” using field recordings as musical instruments – a technique that evolved into modern sampling. In 2018, a label even released a compilation of field recordings specifically of different fridges.

However, the sound from the Co-op freezers is described as particularly harmonic. One observer likened it to the synthesized choral voices found in Brian Eno’s ambient music, while another noted similarities to the sounds emitted by electric cars.

Dr. Benjamin Tassie, a composer based in Sheffield, explained that these sounds are unexpected and “jolt us out of ourselves and attune us to the world in a different way.” He noted the harmonious qualities inherent in drones and other natural sounds.

What’s Next?

The online discussion surrounding the Co-op freezers suggests a growing interest in documenting and sharing the sound. Requests for extended recordings, such as a 10-hour YouTube version, indicate a potential for the phenomenon to gain wider attention. Others may visit the store to experience and record the sound themselves. The Co-op has acknowledged the attention, stating it’s “good to hear our shoppers are enjoying the freezer section.”

Frequently Asked Questions

What initially sparked interest in the Co-op freezers?

A Reddit user posted in January noting the pleasant sound coming from the freezers, comparing it to an “electrical gong bath.”

Have others attempted to analyse the sound?

Yes, online discussions have included attempts to identify the musical key of the sound, with suggestions of C# major, and comparisons to existing songs.

What is the Co-op’s official response?

A Co-op spokesperson stated they are “unable to confirm whether the freezers are rehearsing for their next orchestral recital,” but are pleased shoppers are enjoying the freezer section.

Does this unexpected symphony remind you to pay closer attention to the often-overlooked sounds in your everyday environment?