BTS – Lockdown Night

During my first outings with the 5.0 surround recording system, I discovered a new way of capturing sound that required patience and adaptation. This ambitious surround sound project presented new challenges : setting up the equipment took longer, the workflow was different, and the imposing setup occasionally drew the attention of passersby.

This pack was created during the second lockdown in France, in the streets of Paris deserted by the curfew. This exceptional period offered a rare opportunity, capturing the sonic essence of a typically lively metropolis, but this time, slowed down and at peace.

Paris, in the heart of the night, became my sonic playground. The city was unusually quiet, and with no interruptions or distractions, I could focus fully on exploring its hidden soundscapes. Over the course of ten nighttime sessions, I patiently collected the necessary atmospheres to create this unique sound pack.

The recording sessions took place between midnight and 5 a.m., in the biting cold of Parisian winter nights. The sense of emptiness, combined with the silence, provided an ideal backdrop for capturing the subtle nuances of the urban soundscape. Despite the lockdown measures, I still encountered a few vehicles and pedestrians, creating isolated sonic moments that punctuated the atmosphere. This contrast between the peacefulness of the night and the occasional activity offers a unique sonic portrait, presenting an alternative vision of the capital.