Male Aggression

is a concept sound/performance project that involves creating improvised harsh noise through the amplification of power tools, specifically reciprocating saws, with dual piezo contact microphones affixed directly to the motor and vent barrel of the object(s). The amplified sounds of the motor are then sampled, processed and effected, and then resampled. This process leads to a progressively more aggressive and abrasive sonic environment as the performance progresses.

Power tools are objects that are often cultural signifiers of power and gender and, oftentimes act as a symbol of the user’s butch identity or masculinity. Performing as Male Aggression, the artist seeks to interface with her own butch identity, and both respectfully co-opt and disrespectfully satirize the performance of an aggressive masculine identity.