TALK TO A REAL HUMAN

This is my take on the ready-made tradition.

The full release has been recorded from a blank flimsy tape as is, then slightly mastered with the intention to keep as much of the original source as possible, making it audible enough to enjoy its true beauty.

Released on 13 May 2024.

The mantra, then, is a distraction. And while certain distractions can take you out of the present moment, others can keep the conscious part of yourself busy so that the unconscious is freed up to work for you. Worry beads, rosaries, and malas work in the same way.
Rick Rubin, The Creative Act

So do the Blank Tape: it takes a place of noise in your head, freeing the mind.

When it plays softly in my jacket pocket, it creates my own micro audio personal space. It envelops me like an elastic shield, giving me confidence. I usually lose sight of it playing quietly quickly and for long periods of time.

When its plays softly enough to not disturb me, but audible enough to replace my own noise of thoughts, when this beautiful balance achieved, this record brings a real pleasure of awareness and flow state.

How to listen

First, lower the volume to make it half of how loud you usually listen to music.
Take a silent break before replaying.

May serve as a natural time counter, since each side is 30 minutes, and the whole release is 1 hour.
Side B is my favourite.

Vinyl

There is a single copy vinyl record made using the hot cutting method.

Read First

Every day, more than 100,000 new tracks are uploaded to Spotify and other streaming platforms.

In such an avalanche of content, original pieces are getting lost, causing frustration for creators who invest enormous time, money and effort.

Having unlimited access to online publications devalues the original artworks even more.

What changes if there is only one chance to perceive the artwork?

For the author — at the moment of its creation, for the consumer — at the moment of listening.

Concept of One-Play Audio Cassette

I am genuinely fascinated by one-time artefacts.

This is why I have created this disposable cassette that destroys its tape with a built-in blade as it plays.

For me, this is the ultimate act of creativity, allowing an intimate connection with the art piece to be conveyed from the author to the listener.

Implementation

I performed the music live and recorded it directly onto a tape. I then inserted a blade into the case and sealed it so the destructive element could not be removed.

I titled the object Read First to forewarn the future holder against unintentional destruction.

This item is in hands since 27 April 2024.

Social Media

This artwork has sparked a large response on social media.

Some people are fascinated by it, others hate it, some feel uncomfortable or the opposite satisfied.

Blank Tape