Hemant Sreekumar’s ‘AGNOTOLOGY’: A Sonic Exploration of Misinformation and Dissonance in the Digital Age
Kerala-born sound and multimedia artist Hemant Sreekumar has carved a distinct niche for himself within India’s experimental music scene over the past decade. Renowned for his ability to weave intricate emotional narratives through soundscapes of dissonant textures and fragmented noises, Sreekumar’s work transcends the conventional boundaries of melody and rhythm, offering a unique and immersive listening experience. His latest EP, ‘AGNOTOLOGY,’ released via Bangalore’s Subcontinental label, further solidifies his position as a leading voice in experimental music, delving into the complex and often unsettling realities of misinformation in the digital age.
‘AGNOTOLOGY’ comprises seven tracks that collectively explore the pervasive nature of misinformation and its destabilizing impact on individuals and society. The accompanying concept note explicitly states this thematic focus, but the emotional resonance of the music transcends any need for textual explanation. Each track functions as a sonic vignette, capturing the anxieties and uncertainties of navigating a world saturated with manipulated narratives and distorted realities.
One of the standout tracks, ‘PSYCHOTROPICANA,’ encapsulates the overwhelming and disorienting effects of misinformation. The track begins with the gentle sounds of nature – birdsong and ambient murmurs – before transitioning into a relentless crescendo of mechanical whirring and buzzing. This sonic build-up evokes the feeling of being swept away by a torrent of information overload, a cacophony of noise that obscures truth and distorts perception. The eventual return to the natural soundscape offers a fleeting moment of respite, a brief escape from the digital deluge. While the track aligns perfectly with the EP’s central theme, it also resonates on a broader level, symbolizing the internal and external noise that prevents us from achieving a state of presence and tranquility.
‘DEEPFAKE VOID,’ another compelling piece, explores the insidious nature of identity manipulation in the digital age. The track conjures a sense of unease and paranoia, evoking a Lynchian atmosphere of distorted realities and lurking threats. The very notion of identity becomes destabilized, undermined by the pervasive presence of deepfakes and other forms of digital deception. The title itself suggests a void where authenticity should reside, a hollow space created by the erosion of trust and the proliferation of fabricated realities.
In contrast to the more abstract and atmospheric pieces, ‘BORED APE FIGHT CLUB 1’ and ‘BORED APE FIGHT CLUB 2’ offer a more rhythmic and discordant exploration of social behavior. While these tracks might initially appear less directly connected to the theme of misinformation, the concept note reveals a deeper layer of meaning. The rhythmic clashes and dissonant conversations within these tracks can be interpreted as reflections on the online interactions between strangers, often characterized by conflict and antagonism. The reference to the Bored Ape Yacht Club, a prominent NFT collection, adds another layer of commentary on the complexities of digital identity and social status in the online world.
While every track on ‘AGNOTOLOGY’ contributes to the overarching narrative, the unnamed fifth track stands out for its sheer emotional impact. This hypnotic composition features immersive drones that rise and fall, constantly interrupted by bursts of noise. It serves as a powerful demonstration of how noise, often perceived as chaotic and disruptive, can be harnessed to create a captivating and emotionally resonant journey. The track eschews traditional musical structures of rhythm and harmony, instead relying on the interplay of tension and release, anticipation and subversion, to create a truly unique listening experience. It’s a particularly compelling piece for those unfamiliar with the genre, offering an accessible entry point into the world of noise music.
Hemant Sreekumar’s ‘AGNOTOLOGY’ is more than just a collection of experimental soundscapes. It’s a profound reflection on the challenges of navigating an information-saturated world, a sonic exploration of the anxieties and uncertainties that permeate the digital age. Through his masterful use of dissonance, texture, and fragmented noise, Sreekumar creates a visceral and emotionally resonant experience that lingers long after the final note fades. ‘AGNOTOLOGY’ is not just a musical statement; it’s a timely and thought-provoking commentary on the state of our digital world, a sonic exploration of the pervasive and often unsettling realities of misinformation. The EP serves as both a warning and an invitation, urging listeners to critically examine the information they consume and to seek out moments of tranquility and presence amidst the digital deluge. ‘AGNOTOLOGY’ is a testament to the power of experimental music to engage with complex social and cultural issues, offering not just entertainment, but also a space for reflection and critical inquiry.
The EP, available in both digital and physical formats – including limited edition cassette tapes and wearables – showcases the artist’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of music and exploring new forms of creative expression. The accompanying artwork by ANPUSAN further enhances the immersive experience, visually capturing the themes of dissonance and disruption that permeate the music. ‘AGNOTOLOGY’ is a must-listen for fans of experimental music and anyone interested in exploring the sonic possibilities of noise and dissonance. It’s a powerful and thought-provoking work that challenges conventional notions of music and offers a unique and immersive listening experience. With ‘AGNOTOLOGY,’ Hemant Sreekumar solidifies his position as a leading voice in India’s experimental music scene, continuing to push the boundaries of sound and explore the complex realities of our digital world.