Jack Prest

“Abstract thought can anticipate by centuries hypotheses that find a use - or confirmation - in scientific inquiry.” - Carlo Ravelli, The Order of Time.

Time Machine Test Tones is a metaphysical odyssey through spacetime. Conceived by sound engineer and composer Jack Prest it postulates phase cancellation as a new method for spacetime travel. This pioneering venture employs a combination of experimental electronic music and video synthesis to create test patterns or tones that seek to phase cancel spacetime itself.

Test Tones is experienced as an improvised performance of electronic, drone and ambient music by Jack, created through an experimental system comprised of a computer, audio effects units, live microphone feedback loops, trumpet and voice. Jack simultaneously performs improvised projection mapped visuals, powered by video synthesis. The performance takes place within a minimalist art-installation created in collaboration with scenographer Elia Bosshard. Together these elements form an unkown vessel, one that you enter with your mind. It aims to create an experience akin to deep meditation or psychedelic awakenings. Clear your mind of terrestrial thoughts and embark on a multi-sensory adventure. 

Phase cancellation is something audio engineers deal with on a daily basis. To explain briefly; if you take a sound wave and its exact opposite and play them at the same time you get silence. Due to their inverse phase they “cancel” each other out. Conceptualising outward from this principle Jack theorises that if spacetime is essentially a collection of oscillations then it stands to reason a complicated device could create an opposite oscillation. This would in effect cancel the spacetime for as long as the opposite waveform was present. This allows any matter present to essentially travel outside of spacetime, re-entering at a different point once the phase cancelled oscillation stops.

“There is a feeling I have sometimes. When my brain slows, when my heart opens. A slow warmth that is simultaneously deep inside and everywhere without. This feeling reminds me that life is simple and special. Don’t worry. Take it slow. This feeling is so big it feels like a place. A place found through music, art, meditation and love. This work is about creating a physical environment that can transport us to this metaphysical place a place outside of space and time.” - Jack Prest.

As Jack engages in live improvisation, the search for tones specific to the performance environment becomes a dynamic and responsive journey. The spontaneity embedded within each moment allows the performance to adapt to the nuances of the space, creating a wholly novel experience for the audience. The performance is a constant search for the sound and light waves, intricately woven into the fabric of the work. This transforms each iteration into an unrepeatable journey. By nature this creates a performance that is modular and bespoke enabling it to work in a number of environments from black box theatre, to art gallery to public art installation. Below are some concept images by designer Elia Bosshard showing performance contexts and ideas for further development of the performance installation/staging.

Time Machine Test Tones has received support from Create NSW Music Board in 2022, Create NSW Multi-Arts Board in 2023 and has been developed through residencies at Bundanon Trust and Brand X COSCS. The work is in the final stage of development seeking presenting partners to book this transcendent experience for their audience.

Below are some behind the scenes images from the 2023 development at Brand X with Elia Bosshard.

EARLIER DEVELOPMENT

The below video is from an earlier performance of Time Machine Test Tones at People’s Republic of Camperdown in 2021. It shows the development of concept and form Jack has been capable of with peer support and funding he has received over the last 2 years. It also showcases the adaptability of the work as a more traditional audio/visual performance in smaller venues.

Jack has had the idea for a phase cancellation based time machine for sometime now and this current iteration is part of an ongoing exploration of video synthesis and experimental electronic music.

In 2017 he released with release on an iPhone app called Test Tones designed as an artwork alternative to using social media as an idle activity when using a smart phone. It presents a series of 8 visual patterns that the user can swipe between. It also has an accompanying ambient music piece for a more immersive experience. The app is currently in redevelopment. Below are some screen shots from the original 2017 version of the app.

In May 2021 Jack released an EP of ambient selections from the Test Tones project. It can be found on all digital streaming services (or via the player below and is available for purchase on cassette or digital download from his Bandcamp page. The EP received support from NTS, FBi, 2ser and Martyn Pepperell.

The project made possible with support of the music and multi arts boards of Create NSW