What is Ambient Noise Wall Music?

Ambient noise wall music, also known as 'harsh wall noise' or 'HNW,' is an experimental subgenre of noise music that combines elements of ambient and industrial sounds. It is characterized by its highly textured, dense layers of sound that create an immersive and enveloping listening experience. The genre emerged in the late 1990s and early 2000s, influenced by artists such as Merzbow, The Rita, and Vomir.

The History and Evolution of Ambient Noise Wall Music

The roots of ambient noise wall music can be traced back to the avant-garde art movements of the 20th century, such as Dadaism and Futurism. These movements embraced unconventional sounds and techniques to explore new ways of creating music. In the late 1990s, artists like Merzbow began experimenting with extreme noise manipulation, paving the way for the development of ambient noise wall music.

Over time, different artists have contributed to the evolution of the genre by incorporating various influences from drone, power electronics, and musique concrète. Today, ambient noise wall music continues to push boundaries and challenge traditional notions of what constitutes music.

Characteristics of Ambient Noise Wall Music

Ambient noise wall music is defined by its dense layers of sound that create a complex and textured sonic environment. Often devoid of melody or rhythm, the focus is on the subtleties of texture and timbre, with artists using a variety of techniques and tools to manipulate sound.

Some common elements found in ambient noise wall music include:

• Static-like textures
• Distorted or processed field recordings
• Feedback loops
• Manipulated samples
• Drones and sustained tones

Notable Ambient Noise Wall Artists and Albums

If you're interested in exploring the world of ambient noise wall music, here are some notable artists and albums to check out:

• Merzbow - 'Pulse Demon'
• The Rita - 'Thousands of Dead Gods'
• Vomir - 'Proanomie'
• Werewolf Jerusalem - 'Confessions of a Sex Maniac'
• Whitehouse - 'Cruise'