Thunderboom Records supports talented artists through Artificial Intelligence and Augmented Reality. During ESNS they tested various AI and AR tools. They wanted to know how artists would apply these. In this way, they give every musician in the Netherlands equal opportunities and resources to work safely and autonomously with the latest technology.

Joost de Boo, co-founder of Thunderboom Records, concludes after his conversations with artists at ESNS that few of them already use new technologies such as AI or AR. This is due to either a lack of time, high costs or lack of knowledge: “Although artists are not afraid that AI will take over their live performances, many are skeptical about the creative possibilities of technological tools, especially with regard to privacy and intellectual property,” says Joost .

When artists were asked to come up with applications regardless of budget or technical limitations, the conversation changed. Joost: “These brainstorming sessions resulted in valuable input that is now being integrated into our Open Culture Tech toolkit. For example a control panel (via MIDI or foot pedal) for visuals and a simple application to convert 2D images (such as album covers) into three-dimensional versions for videos or AR.”

Interesting conversations were also had with artists who are already working with new technology, such as the German band Wax Museum. “They’ve released a video game in which band members appear as game characters. Players must look for a hidden disco ball. This can also be applied to their live concerts. ‘Hiding’ 3D objects will certainly be explored as a feature in our AR app.” Joost says resolutely.