Using technology developed by Nokia Bell Labs, Other Voices creator Philip King showcased sonic empathy at Inspirefest 2017.

Taking to the stage on the first day of Inspirefest were Nokia Bell Labs’ head of innovation incubation, Domhnaill Hernon, and Other Voices creator Philip King, who managed to infuse centuries-old ideas with the latest in smart city technology.

While designed for analysing traffic patterns, Hernon and his colleagues wanted to see how a piece of technology they developed would react when pointed at fish in a tank.

Despite fearing the creation of some monstrous noise, the results astounded them, allowing them to realise the potential for unlocking new music from nature.

Words by Colm Gorey