Fred Armisen, renowned for his work on “Saturday Night Live” and “Portlandia,” has released a unique album titled ‘100 Sound Effects’. This album, launched under Chicago’s Drag City label, captures the myriad sounds of everyday life. It reflects Armisen’s deep appreciation of sound, a theme that resonates throughout his artistic career.
During a recent interview in Evanston, Illinois, Armisen showcased his ability to listen keenly to the world around him. While discussing the sounds of his previous home, Chicago, he remarked on a garbage truck rumbling down Sherman Avenue. “OK, what’s that guy so angry about?” he quipped, illustrating his distinctive perspective on noise. Moments later, the sound of a nearby Supreme Lobster truck added to the urban symphony around him.
Armisen’s career has been characterized by his unique voice and sound awareness. His time on “SNL” included memorable characters defined by their vocal traits, while his stand-up performances often highlight his drumming skills. He has collaborated musically with artists like Sleater-Kinney and Carrie Brownstein, further showcasing his diverse talents.
Soundscapes of Chicago
Reflecting on the sounds of Chicago, Armisen elaborated on the city’s auditory landscape. He described how the absence of heavy traffic noise in certain areas allows the chatter of passersby to come through. “It’s not quite all MEEP MEEP all the time,” he noted, emphasizing the unique auditory experience of being in the city.
In a vivid description, he recalled the silence of a frigid Chicago winter night after dining out. “That cold silence, that sound of icy air — that’s extremely Chicago,” he insisted, revealing his connection to the city’s ambient sounds. He also mentioned the iconic noise of the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) trains, which he considers one of the most recognizable sounds associated with the city.
Armisen’s album features tracks that capture various aspects of sound, including “Music Venue Employee Kicking Everyone Out While Throwing Away Bottles” and “Fake Booing.” The first track, “Needle on Record,” sets the tone for the eclectic nature of the album, while the final track, “Fred Walking to Control Room,” offers a personal touch.
A Tribute to Steve Albini
The album is dedicated to the late Steve Albini, a respected Chicago producer and Armisen’s close friend, who passed away in 2024. Armisen explained that Albini played a crucial role in facilitating the album’s production. “He had an admiration for his work ethic and how he recorded music,” Armisen stated, reflecting on their long-standing friendship.
The creative process for “100 Sound Effects” began as a nostalgic tribute to Armisen’s early years in Chicago. He reminisced about working at Sound Warehouse, a record store that featured sound effect CDs. This fond memory sparked the idea to create an album focused on sound effects, departing from his initial thoughts of producing a comedy record.
Armisen’s approach to sound reflects a broader artistic intent, as he envisions the album being rediscovered by sound designers decades from now. He hopes it will serve as an “aural time capsule” of the early 21st century. “I wanted this record to be that weird little record in your collection that nobody knows what it is,” he explained.
As the interview concluded, Armisen’s observations about everyday noise revealed an artist deeply engaged with the world around him. He highlighted the significance of sound in capturing moments and experiences. “Making this record was an education in how much noise is really out in the world,” he said, underscoring his commitment to exploring sound in all its forms.
“100 Sound Effects” is set to be launched on October 14, 2025, with Armisen continuing to push the boundaries of creativity in his unique style.
