CSA images, Getty
From storytelling to sound art, the two newest additions to ABC RN’s programming take listeners on a journey into the unexpected across the airwaves.
Sitting under the recently formed Creative Audio Unit (CAU), programs Radiotonic and Soundproof both address an emerging international interest in the potential for radio to be made and presented artfully.
While each program will carve out an individual niche, Radiotonic and Soundproof will work in concert to expand upon traditional expectations of radio.
Each Sunday at 3pm, and repeated Wednesday evenings at 9pm, Radiotonic, presented by Jesse Cox, delves into a world of fiction and non-fiction, reinventing the sound-rich radio essay and taking new approaches to radio drama.
Following Radiotonic at 8pm, and repeated Fridays at 9pm, Soundproof, presented by Miyuki Jokiranta, features experimental soundscapes, field recordings, composed audio features and collaborative performance and theatre-based sound works.
Radiotonic’s Jesse Cox reflected on the symbiotic relationship between Radiotonic and Soundproof. ‘One thing we’re interested in is how the two programs can point to each other,’ Cox said, adding that the crossover might be as simple as a thematic exchange where the same ideas are explored through different approaches. ‘In Radiotonic you might hear an inventive story exploring a theme, then in the evening on Soundproof you might hear more of a soundscape or non-narrative response to that same theme.’
Soundproof producer and presenter, Miyuki Jokiranta, further explained the shows’ differences. ‘Soundproof goes a little bit further than Radiotonic into the sound world, not necessarily focusing on works driven by texts, rather exploring how to transport listeners through imagination and sound.’
A recent episode of Radiotonic showcased the show’s versatility by featuring four “contemplative” works, ranging from deeply personal cultural critiques around Vietnamese nail salon culture and the effect of technology on daily lives, to one woman’s essayistic tale of connecting with a humpback whale, to a surreal conversation about the value/lack thereof of hearing about other peoples’ dreams.
CAU Executive Producer Julie Shapiro commented that Soundproof’s potential could be heard in Western Sydney Sound Sonic, which aired on the inaugural episode. ‘It is a very spacious piece with long stretches of different religious music. We received some very appreciative responses to the program, which was made by RN producer Sherre DeLys, with the notion of airing as part of the CAU’s programming.’
DeLys’s program was presented alongside a short “archeo-acoustic” feature on the history of bells produced by Jokiranta, a Francis Bacon text from the 1600’s that eerily predicts modern recording technologies, and a dreamscape “Bedtime Story” from RN producer John Jacobs.
‘With Soundproof airing at 8pm on Sundays and 9pm on Fridays, we can push further and explore less narrative, more experiential work. It’s a time of the week when listeners may be more inclined to give in and let a range of sound textures and rhythms wash over them,’ Shapiro said.
Additionally, Radiotonic is scheduled perfectly, airing earlier in the day when audiences may want to sink their ears into stories, characters, and more linear narratives. Between the two shows, we’re working with a wide spectrum of work. The CAU’s goal is to honour this range, while always demonstrating the creative potential for radio across all styles and approaches.
‘We’re actively seeking partnerships and collaborations with individuals, institutions and organisations, but we’re also depending on interested parties to get in touch with us, after hearing the shows and beginning to get an understanding for what we’re up to. I welcome anyone and everyone to email us with ideas big and small.’
Refresh your ears with Radiotonic, Sundays at 3.00pm and repeated Wednesdays at 9.00pm.
Trust your ears with the sonic adventure Soundproof, Sundays at 8.00pm and repeated Fridays at 9.00pm.
Connect with ABC RN, the ABC’s national ideas network.
