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DavidSnider
Gold Member
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What makes a sound "eerie"
Any ideas why droning sounds, echos, etc give us the creeps?
Any ideas why droning sounds, echos, etc give us the creeps?
In 2004 author Jon Ronson revealed a military report titled "Non-Lethal Weapons: Terms and References." There were a total of 21 acoustic weapons listed, in various stages of development, including the Infrasound ("Very low-frequency sound which can travel long distances and easily penetrate most buildings and vehicles...biophysical effects: nausea, loss of bowels, disorientation, vomiting, potential internal organ damage or death may occur. Superior to ultrasound...").
lisab said:I don't think those sounds are inherently creepy, but we've been conditioned by scary movies to associate them with creepiness.
Well, that could be readily be controlled for, by playing them before a group of individuals not used to scary movies.lisab said:I don't think those sounds are inherently creepy, but we've been conditioned by scary movies to associate them with creepiness.
There are a few factors that can contribute to a sound being perceived as eerie. These include:
People's perception of sound can be influenced by a variety of factors such as personal experiences, cultural background, and individual sensitivity to different types of sounds. Some people may have a higher tolerance for unsettling or eerie sounds, while others may be more sensitive to them.
Yes, certain musical techniques such as minor keys, dissonance, and the use of unconventional instruments or sound effects can contribute to a sound being perceived as eerie. These techniques can create a sense of tension, unease, and unpredictability in the listener.
While there is no definitive answer, some studies have suggested that the human brain may associate certain sounds with danger or warning signals, triggering a fear response. Additionally, the use of dissonance in music may activate the amygdala, a part of the brain associated with fear and emotional processing.
Yes, sound designers and composers can use various techniques to create a sense of eeriness in their work. This can involve manipulating pitch, timbre, and tempo, as well as incorporating elements of silence and surprise. Additionally, the context and association of a sound can also play a significant role in how it is perceived by the listener.