The New Yorker Radio Hour Fred Armisen on “100 Sound Effects”
Sep 2, 2025
Fred Armisen, a comedian, musician, and actor known for his work on SNL, dives into his passion for sound in a discussion about his new album, '100 Sound Effects.' He humorously reflects on the nostalgia of classic sound effect albums and shares quirky track titles that poke fun at everyday life. Fred also takes listeners on an auditory tour of New York City, capturing its vibrant sounds while faking what he couldn't find. With playful mimicry and creative brainstorming, this conversation highlights the joy and artistry behind sound.
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Reviving Sound Effects Records
- Fred Armisen noticed sound-effects records used to be more common and wanted to revive that format with modern twists.
- He treated the project seriously by booking studio time and crafting imagined and recorded sounds.
Record Like A Professional
- Don’t just record casually on your phone if you want high-quality effects; use a proper studio and technique.
- Mimic and craft sounds intentionally rather than relying on raw field takes for the best results.
Recording Odd European Dryers
- Fred recorded European laundry machines in Ireland because their beeps and mechanisms sounded distinct and unreproducible in studio.
- He captured front-door openings and dryer beeps with a portable recorder to preserve location-specific character.