The Janus Horn. The speaker horn is something I have been making and studying for quite some time. Through contemplating the spatial imaging and directionality of the horns, I began to think about utilizing these qualities dynamically. - The way the projected sound coming from this spinning horn is reflected off surfaces in the environment is similar to a Leslie unit. The resulting effect envelops the listener in a variety of merging wave fronts both emanating directly from the horn, and reflected off surfaces in the environment. Twisting phase relationships and Doppler-effect pitch-shifts occur within this unique kaleidoscope of sound.
- When Andrew Bird played his violin through this unit for the first time it was immediately apparent that the two are a special match. Several people within earshot simply started to cry. I know I got a lump in my throat. The rig has a foot pedal to vary the speed from slow undulations to a very fast swirl. Click here to see many detail photos of the inside and close-ups of its construction.
-
In April 2007, Andrew Bird performed live on the Late Show with David Letterman using both the Janus horn and his Specimen single horn speaker which has been part of his sound for the past two years. A couple months later, he and the horns appeared on Late Night with Conan O'Brien. Click here for links to see these performances.
Most recently, Andrew released a new music video directed by Britta Johnson that features the Janus in action. Click the screen below to see the video:
-
Click here for many detail photos of the inside and close-ups of its construction.
-
|
|
|
