Illustrious Company, the duo of Martyn Ware and Charles Stooke, explores the intersection of sound and neuroscience with their upcoming album Mesmerine 111. This 50-minute soundscape, divided into two pharmacologically-inspired mixes, draws on the unique frequency of 111 Hz, which, as MRI scans suggest, may trigger meditative states in the brain. Premiered at the FOCUS Art Fair in 2025, the project aims to elicit both disquiet and reassurance through its vocal elements. Scheduled for release on September 5 via Cold Spring, the album suggests an optimal listening duration of 30-60 minutes.
Given the blend of art, science, and technology in Mesmerine 111, how might we further harness auditory experiences to influence mental states in therapeutic contexts?
