Home Tours Videos Interviews Reviews Photography Featured Artist Contact THEME

INTERVIEW: I, Benign

image
I, Benign is the solo noise project created by Aaron Wallis. Wallis, who has taken his love of music in a direction that’s different than most, is steadily making a name for himself with his unique sound and recently, I was able to discuss it with him.

How would you describe noise music?
I would describe noise music as the complete absence of music. It can be anything from ambient droning to a full-on wall of sound with ear piercing feedback. Even though noise musicians will use the same equipment for their performances, no two “songs” will ever sound the same.

Who would you say are your noise/musical influences?
My early influences to start creating experimental music were bands like Einsturzende Neubauten and artists like Merzbow and Hanatarash. Now, I’m influenced by the local noise scene and all of the people who come out to support.

What made you want to get into noise, instead of something like pop or rock music?
I got into noise music because it represents complete freedom to do or make whatever you want with no limitations or expectations. As a solo artist, I have the opportunity to push the envelope artistically or sonically or to do the complete opposite – there are no rules.

Where do you get the inspiration for your music?
Inspiration can come from anywhere: a bad day at work [or] simply just setting up gear in a certain order can greatly influence how a recording will turn out.

How does a song normally come together?
A song can come together in a number of ways. You can start with just a loop and build on it or you can crank all the knobs to ten and burst out in insanity right out of the gate. Most noise performances are off the cuff – there aren’t many songs that I’ve recorded or played live that I have “written” or arranged beforehand. Part of the fun is letting go of control and letting the sound take over.

What has the general response been from listeners?
Being a niche genre, most of the people who come out to see noise shows know what they’re in for, love it and are more than supportive. People who aren’t familiar with the genre react with anything from confusion and anger to absolute curiosity and excitement! It’s a crapshoot, but you never know where the weirdoes are.

What changes have you seen in the noise scene over the past couple of years?
The only change I’ve seen in the noise community is growth and support. When I started playing live shows, there were few noise artists in the area (Isolation Order, Indigenous Nudes, RBR), but, over the past two years, the community has grown and there are many more artists either starting new projects or finally coming out of the woodwork and playing again – it’s fantastic. I’m not taking credit for the growth in any way, but I love the way things have turned out.

What do you say to those who claim noise isn’t real music?
Noise isn’t real music! We don’t want music! Noise is the opposite, for people who don’t want to be in traditional bands or for [those] who have a taste for extremes beyond conventional extreme.

Where would you like to see yourself in five years?
In the next five years, I want my music to still be enjoyed by the small group of people who enjoy it. I didn’t start this project to make money or get famous – it simply won’t happen. I would like to keep making music for the enjoyment and not because I have to. I do, however, plan on touring with a few of the other artists in the area.

Final Question: what is your go-to karaoke song?
“Anything” by Duncan Prior. He’s a legend around here.

You can find I, Benign’s music on Bandcamp.

By Clare Fitzgerald