Fred Armisen commemorates his album with a tribute to the late Steve Albini, stating that Albini played a significant role in the album's development, titled 100 Sound Effects. Armisen shares his ongoing daily longing for Albini.
Fred Armisen Unveils Unique Sound Effects Album, "100 Sound Effects"
Fred Armisen, the renowned comedian and musician, is set to release his latest project, 100 Sound Effects, on September 26, 2025, via Drag City Records[1][2][3][4]. This intriguing album offers a diverse range of 101 sound effects, from the eccentric and humorous—such as "Small Theater Booing" and "Music Venue Employee Kicking Everyone Out While Throwing Away Bottles"—to more traditional sounds like doors shutting and glass breaking[1][2][3][4].
The idea for the album was inspired by classic haunted house sound effects albums, which Armisen found both fun and appealing. Initially, Armisen planned to record the album at Steve Albini’s Electrical Audio studio in Chicago, but due to the album's unconventional nature and uncertain length, he decided to produce it in Los Angeles instead[1][2]. Albini, who passed away in 2024 after suffering a heart attack, was instrumental in making the album happen, and it is dedicated to his memory[1][2].
Armisen collaborated with engineer Darrell Thorp at Studio 606 and Sunset Sound, following Albini’s recommendation[1][2]. Additional creative input came from performers and musicians Mary Lynn Rajskub, Amber Coffman, Tim Heidecker, Riki Lindhome, and Alice Carbone Tench[1][2][4]. Some sounds were even captured by Armisen himself in the wild using a portable digital recorder[2][4].
The track "Music Venues" from the album is available as a teaser[1][2][3]. The album can be pre-ordered on the Drag City website, and the tracklisting can be found there as well[1][2][3][4].
In addition to the album release, Armisen has announced a short live tour titled “Comedy for Musicians But Everyone is Welcome,” starting on September 16, 2025, in Santa Ana, California[1].
100 Sound Effects is a meticulously crafted album that combines humor, niche specificity, and traditional sound library elements, making it a versatile tool for a variety of purposes. Whether you're looking for a library, an industrial tool for entertainment projects, or simply for deep listening, this album is sure to provide something unique and engaging[1][2][3][4].
- Examples of sound effects include "Trying Out an Electronic Drum Kit with Headphones at a Music Store" and "Walking into a Video Room at an Art Museum and Walking Out Quickly."
- The album consists of 101 sound effects, each with a descriptive name.
- The track "Music Venues" is a compilation of content from the album 100 Sound Effects.
- Armisen worked with engineer Dave Grohl's recommendation, Darrell Thorp, on the album.
- The album was recorded in Los Angeles, not at Steve Albini's studio in Chicago as initially planned.
This intriguing album, 100 Sound Effects, offers not only traditional sounds but also a unique blend of humor, as evident in sound effects like "Trying Out an Electronic Drum Kit with Headphones at a Music Store." (Referencing the unconventional nature of the album's sound effects)
For those interested in music-related entertainment, the track "Music Venues" from the album offers a compelling compilation of various sound effects. (Referencing one of the music-related sound effects and a track titled "Music Venues")
