Dirty listening refers to intentionally exploring and embracing the non-linear and unconventional aspects of sound. It involves actively seeking out and engaging with sounds that may be considered undesirable, disruptive, or "dirty" in the traditional sense. Instead of avoiding or dismissing these sounds, dirty listening encourages individuals to embrace them as valuable and meaningful sonic experiences.
Dirty listening challenges the idea of what is considered "clean" or "pure" in sound and encourages a reevaluation of our auditory perception. It prompts us to question our preconceived notions of what is pleasing or acceptable in soundscapes and opens the door to reconsider what we see or listen as nature. Dirty listening is to pay attention to this dark ecologies and embrace them as part of nature too.
By embracing the "dirty" elements of sound, and other sonic imperfections, dirty listening encourages a deeper exploration of the complexity and diversity of auditory experiences. It invites us to listen beyond the surface and discover hidden layers such as new textures, narratives, and emotional responses that may not be immediately apparent in a pristine or controlled sonic environment, enabling us to discover beauty and significance in unexpected places.