Slot Machine Music

It’s no secret that casinos are some of the most psychologically manipulative places on earth. From the pleasant hypnotic flicker of lights to the subtly designed walkways that lead you in circles—and away from the exits—every single detail is manicured for maximum comfort. This even extends to the music of every machine in the building, each tuned to the key of major C so that a discordant sound never strikes your ear. Adrian Rew, stashing an Olympus LS-11 recorder in the pocket of his coat (illegally, but don’t tell anyone!), takes a stroll through American casinos to capture the comfortable sounds of these dens of iniquity. It’s a comfortable and sedating listen, which, when you take a moment to reflect, is a little bit terrifying.