Chris Watson is an English musician widely recognized for his pioneering work in field recording and sound art. Born in 1953 in Sheffield, England, Watson's illustrious career in sound began as a founding member of the influential experimental music group Cabaret Voltaire in the late 1970s and early 1980s. His journey with the band was deeply rooted in the industrial music scene of that era. However, it was his profound interest in capturing the intricacies of natural soundscapes and turning them into sonic narratives that established his solo career.

After leaving Cabaret Voltaire in the early 1980s, Watson honed his craft, venturing into the wild and recording the untouched sounds of our planet. His works since then, such as 'Oxmardyke' and 'El Tren Fantasma', stand as a testament to his skill in capturing the essence of environments and their aural characteristics. He has become particularly renowned for releases like 'The Drinking Boy', 'In St Cuthbert's Time', and 'Notes from the Forest Floor / Line of Parts', which not only showcase environmental recordings but often serve as acoustic snapshots of specific locations or moments in time. These pieces transcend traditional music, offering listeners immersive experiences. Watson's meticulous attention to detail and his ability to record and juxtapose sounds has earned him critical acclaim, and his work is frequently featured in television documentaries and cinema, contributing to the sensory depth of visual storytelling with his audio expertise.

Genres

British Experimental

Field Recording

Hauntology

Lowercase

Sound Art

Latest Release

The Seven Sonic Wonders

Chris Watson•

Nainita Desai

Album - 8 Tracks - Released March 15, 2024